Chinese idiom · 成语
按兵不动
Meaning
To hold troops still; to bide one’s time strategically.
Character by character
Origin and story
Literary expressionXunzi (荀子), Wang Zhi (王制), advises a strong and prosperous state to hold its forces still while violent rivals contend, concentrating on sound government and the people’s preparation. The wording 案兵无动 supplies an early form of the expression. Lüshi Chunqiu also records Zhao Jianzi refraining from an attack after learning that Wei is supported by capable advisers.
The shared idea is restraint in deploying a force, whether from careful assessment or a decision to wait. In everyday language, soldiers are no longer necessary: a person or organization can remain inactive while watching developments. Depending on context, that restraint may be prudent or unhelpfully passive.
Sources and further reading
In everyday life
新规定还没公布，我们先按兵不动，等消息明确再调整。
The new rules have not been announced, so we will hold off until the details are clear.
For deliberately postponing action; context determines whether the delay is wise.