Chinese idiom · 成语
尸位素餐
Meaning
To occupy a post without work; to be idle in a position of duty.
Character by character
Origin and story
Composite literary expressionThis expression brings together two older phrases. In the received Shangshu (尚書), Wu Zi Zhi Ge (五子之歌), Taikang is described as occupying his position while indulging in leisure and neglecting rule. In the Shijing (詩經), Wei Feng: Fa Tan (魏風·伐檀), the language of eating without labor contrasts enjoying produce with failing to sow, reap, or hunt.
Together the words criticize someone who receives the benefits of a post without fulfilling its responsibilities. The image concerns holding office without doing its work. Its target is unearned official or professional maintenance, not unemployment or inability to work.
Sources and further reading
In everyday life
既然担任负责人，就不能尸位素餐，把所有难题都推给下属。
If you take the leadership role, you must not collect its benefits while leaving every problem to subordinates.
A severe criticism of neglecting the duties of a paid or privileged position.