防患于未然
Grammar & Usage
How it works
This is a classical four-character idiom structured as Verb (防, prevent) + Object (患, disaster/calamity) + Prepositional phrase (于未然, before it has happened). It functions syntactically as a predicate, object, or adverbial clause expressing preventive intent, often introduced by '以' (yǐ) or '为了' (wèile).
Sample sentences
我们必须定期检查消防设施，以防患于未然。
We must inspect fire fighting equipment regularly to take precautions against potential disasters.
抓好安全生产的关键在于防患于未然，绝不能等出了事故才重视。
The key to managing workplace safety lies in preventing hazards before they occur, rather than only paying attention after an accident happens.
面对潜在的金融风险，监管部门应当提前布局，防患于未然。
Facing potential financial risks, regulatory authorities should make proactive arrangements to nip troubles in the bud.
Quick facts
Often used with
Mnemonic
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Example
我们必须定期检查消防设施，以防患于未然。
We must inspect fire fighting equipment regularly to take precautions against potential disasters.
抓好安全生产的关键在于防患于未然，绝不能等出了事故才重视。
The key to managing workplace safety lies in preventing hazards before they occur, rather than only paying attention after an accident happens.
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