To pay a heavy price or suffer significant losses in a conflict or fierce competition; referring to the inevitable damage and depletion incurred during a struggle.
那场商业竞争激烈异常，双方都付出了破斧缺斨的代价，元气大伤。
That business competition was extremely fierce; both sides suffered the heavy cost of shattered axes and chipped battle-axes, leaving them severely depleted.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
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