四分五裂

sìfēn-wǔliè

idiom

Meanings

1 split into many pieces
2 torn apart; fragmented
3 at sixes and sevens; in disarray

Characters

to divide; to split

to tear; to rupture

Examples

HSK 5

这个组织因为内部矛盾四分五裂。

Zhège zǔzhī yīnwèi nèibù máodùn sìfēn-wǔliè.

The organization has fractured into pieces because of internal conflict.

HSK 7-9

国家战后四分五裂，百废待兴。

Guójiā zhànhòu sìfēn-wǔliè, bǎifèidàixīng.

After the war the country lay fragmented, everything waiting to be rebuilt.

HSK 7-9

一场争吵让这个家四分五裂。

Yī chǎng zhēngchǎo ràng zhège jiā sìfēn-wǔliè.

One quarrel left the family torn apart.

Tips

history

From 《战国策·魏策一》: Zhang Yi warned King Hui of Wei that without Qin's alliance, Qi, Zhao, Han, and Chu would attack from four sides - 此所谓四分五裂之道也 - this is the path to being carved up on every side. A Warring States geopolitical image.

usage

Strongly negative. Used for countries, organizations, parties, families, and any group torn apart by conflict. Antonym: 万众一心 (a million hearts as one).

Stroke Order

四 sì

分 fēn

五 wǔ

裂 liè