不求有功，但求无过 bù qiú yǒu gōng ， dàn qiú wú guò

fig. to take a risk-averse approach

Word data

HSK Not in HSK
Frequency Unknown

Definitions

  1. 1. fig. to take a risk-averse approach
  2. 2. lit. not aiming to achieve the best possible result, but rather trying to avoid making mistakes (idiom)

Characters

Character Meaning
不 bù HSK 1
not; no; (negative prefix)
求 qiú HSK 3
to seek; to look for; to request
有 yǒu HSK 1
to have; there is; there are
功 gōng HSK 4
meritorious deed or service; achievement; accomplishment
但 dàn HSK 2
but; however; yet
求 qiú HSK 3
to seek; to look for; to request
无 wú HSK 4
not; no; not to have
过 guò HSK 2
to cross; to go over; to pass (time)