当立之年 — “Refers to the age of thirty”

当立之年 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “refers to the age of thirty”. A pivotal period often associated with Confucius's saying "三十而立" (at thirty, one establishes oneself), signifying a time when an individual should have a stable foundation, independence, and a clear sense of direction in life. Literally, “The age for establishing oneself”.

Frequency

当立之年 Pronunciation and Pinyin

当立之年 Character Breakdown

Stroke Order

Character	Pinyin	Strokes	Meaning
当	dāng	6	to act as or serve as
立	lì	5	stand, establish, immediately
之	zhī	4	possessive or connective particle
年	nián	6	year or age

Example Sentence with 当立之年

他已届当立之年，是时候为自己的未来规划一番，并承担更多责任了。

He has reached the age of establishing himself; it is time for him to plan his future and take on more responsibilities.

Origin and Story of 当立之年

During the Spring and Autumn period, after Confucius was marginalized from the political arena in the State of Lu, he led his disciples on a journey through various states. After encountering numerous difficulties in places like Wei, Zheng, Chen, and Jin, they eventually resided idly in Cai.

Confucius discussed his life experiences with his disciples, expressing that he had resolved to propagate his doctrines since the age of thirty. Now, approaching seventy, he lamented that he had not yet succeeded in promoting benevolent governance, feeling a surge of emotions.

Zai Yu immediately came forward to comfort Confucius.