【学如逆水行舟，不进则退】xué rú nì shuǐ xíng zhōu，bù jìn zé tuì
Definition:
Learning is like sailing against the current —— not to advance is to drop back.
Note: This proverb originates from the Ming Dynasty text “增广贤文” (Zeng Guang Xian Wen)and employs the powerful metaphor of sailing against the current to illustrate a fundamental truth: in the face of challenges, whether in learning or personal development, stagnation is not an option—any pause in progress inevitably leads to regression. It emphasizes the necessity of continuous effort and perseverance.
Example Sentences:
If you stop reviewing what you’ve learned, you’ll quickly forget it. Remember, learning is like sailing against the current — not to advance is to drop back.
如果你停止复习所学知识，很快就会忘记。记住，学如逆水行舟，不进则退。
In the rapidly evolving tech industry, professionals must constantly update their skills, as not to advance is to go back.
在快速发展的科技行业，专业人士必须不断更新技能，因为学如逆水行舟，不进则退。
