This young writer drew wide attention as soon as she first emerged on the literary scene.
Tips
memory
Literally 'edge of a sword first revealed' — 锋芒 is the gleaming sharp edge of a blade. Imagine pulling a sword halfway from its sheath: the tip catches the light. That's a rookie's first flash of skill.
usage
Almost always positive, used of athletes, artists, scientists or students at the start of their career. Antonyms include 锋芒毕露 (fēngmáng-bìlù 'showing one's edge too openly', often a warning) and 韬光养晦 (tāoguāngyǎnghuì 'keep a low profile').
