To be ignorant of current affairs, prevailing trends, or the realities of a situation; to lack tact or common sense in social interactions and fail to adapt to changing circumstances.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the late Eastern Han Dynasty, Kong Rong, a renowned scholar, was arrogant about his talent and often satirized and opposed Cao Cao. He wrote letters mocking Cao Cao's campaigns against the Wuhuan people and his pacification of border rebellions. He also penned essays opposing Cao Cao's proposed lifestyle of abstinence from alcohol and frugality.
Cao Cao was greatly annoyed but, due to Kong Rong's considerable reputation, found it inconvenient to punish him directly.
Later, when Cao Cao became the Grand General and Chancellor to Emperor Xian, effectively controlling the central government, Kong Rong was discontent with Cao Cao's usurpation of power and opposed him in every way possible.
Eventually, Cao Cao used a pretext to execute Kong Rong and his entire family.
When Xun Yue of the Eastern Han Dynasty compiled "Han Ji" (Records of the Han), he described Kong Rong's actions as 'bù shí shí wù' (ignorant of the times).