Meaning
This phrase literally means 'to strike/use an abacus' and refers to performing calculations on a traditional Chinese counting device. It has extended figuratively to mean making careful calculations or schemes, especially for one's own benefit. When used metaphorically, it often implies someone is being calculating or crafty in their planning.
Usage
In modern usage, 打算盘 appears more frequently in its figurative sense of scheming or calculating carefully. The literal meaning of using an actual abacus is less common as modern calculators have replaced traditional abacuses. The figurative usage often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting someone is being overly strategic or self-serving in their plans.
Examples
- 01他总是为自己打算盘，从不考虑别人。, .He's always scheming for himself and never considers others.
- 02老会计正在打算盘，计算这个月的收支。, .The old accountant is using the abacus to calculate this month's income and expenses.
Characters
Common collocations
- 打小算盘to scheme for personal gain
- 精打细算to budget carefully
- 心里打算盘to scheme in one's mind
Antonyms
Origin
The phrase comes from the physical action of moving beads on an abacus (算盘) to perform calculations, which was the primary method of arithmetic in traditional Chinese commerce and accounting.