下马威 (xià mǎ wēi) — a display of authority or severity upon assuming a position; an initial show of strength to intimidate
Definition
A set chengyu for an intimidating show of strength, usually by a new boss or authority figure, to assert dominance early on. Often used as 给…一个下马威.
noun
a display of authority or severity upon assuming a positionan initial show of strength to intimidate
Examples
- 下马威。Xīn jīng lǐ yí shàng rèn jiù gěi le dà jiā yí gè xià mǎ wēi.The new manager gave everyone a show of power as soon as he took office.
- ，下马威。Tā wèi le shù lì wēi xìn, xiān lái le gè xià mǎ wēi.In order to establish authority, he first gave a show of strength.
- ，下马威。Bié yǐ wéi tā hǎo qī fu, tā gāng lái shí jiù gěi le wǒ men yí gè xià mǎ wēi.Don't think he's easy to bully; he gave us a show of power when he first arrived.
Appears in
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