Chinese idiom · 成语
从善如流
Meaning
To follow good advice like a stream; open to wisdom.
Character by character
Origin and story
Historical accountThe Zuozhuan, Duke Cheng's eighth year, praises the Jin commander Luan Shu for following the advice of Zhi, Fan, and Han. An earlier episode explains the contrast: many officers favor battle, but these three argue that advancing against Chu after relieving Zheng would be unjustified and unwise. Luan Shu accepts their reasoning rather than simply counting supporters.
The subsequent comment compares following good counsel to the easy movement of flowing water. It celebrates readiness to accept sound advice, not compliance with every suggestion or majority preference.
Sources and further reading
In everyday life
大家指出按钮太小，她从善如流，马上调整了设计。
When people pointed out that the buttons were too small, she readily accepted the advice and adjusted the design.
Praises receptiveness to good advice, not blind agreement.