The name "利利" (Lì Lì) can be interpreted in a few ways, primarily focusing on the meaning of "利" (lì), which translates to benefit, profit, advantage, sharp, or keen. Here are some historical allusions related to these interpretations:
1. 见利忘义 (jiàn lì wàng yì)
- Meaning: To see profit and forget morality; to be blinded by profit.
- Source: Book of the Later Han (后汉书)
- Explanation: This idiom describes someone who prioritizes personal gain over ethical considerations. The "利" here directly relates to the pursuit of benefit, but in a negative context, highlighting the dangers of prioritizing profit above all else.
2. 利令智昏 (lì lìng zhì hūn)
- Meaning: Profit makes one stupid; blinded by greed.
- Explanation: Similar to the previous idiom, this one emphasizes how the pursuit of "利" (profit) can cloud one's judgment and lead to foolish decisions.
3. 渔翁得利 (yú wēng dé lì)
- Meaning: The fisherman profits; the third party benefits.
- Source: Based on the story of the snipe and the clam from the Strategies of the Warring States (战国策).
- Explanation: This idiom describes a situation where two parties are in conflict, and a third party benefits from their struggle. The "利" here refers to the advantage or profit gained by the fisherman.
4. 唯利是图 (wéi lì shì tú)
- Meaning: To be solely interested in profit; to be mercenary.
- Explanation: This idiom describes someone who is single-mindedly focused on pursuing profit ("利") and is often used in a derogatory sense.
5. 磨刀不误砍柴工 (mó dāo bù wù kǎn chái gōng)
- Meaning: Sharpening the knife does not delay the work of chopping wood.
- Explanation: While not directly containing the character "利," this proverb relates to the idea of "利" in the sense of sharpness and efficiency. Sharpening the knife (making it "利" - sharp) ultimately leads to greater benefit and efficiency in the long run. It emphasizes the importance of preparation and using the right tools to maximize benefit.