Chinese idiom · 成语
励精图治
Meaning
To focus energy on governance; diligent rule.
Character by character
Origin and story
Historical expressionThe Book of Han's biography of Wei Xiang describes Emperor Xuan taking personal charge of government and applying himself to ruling well. The phrase there is 厲精為治, followed by attention to evaluating officials and checking their actual performance. It presents energetic governance as practical administrative work, not merely a ruler's stated enthusiasm.
The familiar spelling and wording 励精图治 are documented in later works, including the History of Yuan's biography of Baizhu. The idiom praises concentrated effort to improve government or administration. Although it can be extended to leading an organization, its formal tone and political background make it stronger than simply working diligently at an individual task.
In everyday life
新任校长励精图治，先从改善食堂和图书馆的管理做起。
The new principal is determined to improve the school, beginning with management of the cafeteria and library.
Formal praise for energetic leadership; use beyond government is an extension.