Tā píng zhe zhēncái-shíxué, yībùbù zǒu dào le jīntiān de wèizhi.
Through genuine ability and learning, he worked his way step by step to where he is today.
Tips
history
Found in 《水浒传》 chapter 29: 这是武松平生的真才实学 — 'This was Wu Song's lifelong genuine ability.' Originally praising actual martial skill, not theoretical knowledge.
usage
Always positive. Often contrasted with 花架子 (showy display without substance) or 徒有虚名 (empty reputation). Common in hiring, education, and biographical praise.
