Definition
脱胎换骨 is a four-character idiom (成语) that literally means 'to shed the fetus and exchange the bones' — a Daoist reference to achieving immortality through bodily transformation. In modern usage it describes a thorough, fundamental change in a person's character, habits, or situation, often after a difficult process. You can use it for personal reform, organizational overhaul, or even the complete transformation of a product or system. It carries a strong sense of positive renewal, not just superficial change.
v.p.
to thoroughly transform oneselfto be reborn (through radical change)
Examples
- ，脱胎换骨，。Jīngguò zhè cì shībài, tā tuō tāi huàn gǔ, biàn de fēicháng nǔlì.After this failure, he underwent a thorough transformation and became very hardworking.
- 脱胎换骨，。Zhè jiā gōngsī gǎigé hòu tuō tāi huàn gǔ, yèjì fān le hǎo jǐ bèi.After the reform, this company was completely reborn, and its performance multiplied several times.
- 脱胎换骨，。Tā juéxīn tuō tāi huàn gǔ, chèdǐ gǎi diào suǒyǒu huài xíguàn.He was determined to thoroughly remold himself and get rid of all bad habits.
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