一马当先
在比赛中，他一马当先，最终夺得冠军。
In the competition, he took the lead and won the championship.
To take the lead or initiative in a task or competition, acting as an example for others to follow.
团队项目中，小李总是一马当先，带领大家完成任务。
In team projects, Xiao Li always takes the lead and guides everyone to complete the tasks.
她在学习上一马当先，成绩一直名列前茅。
She takes the lead in her studies, consistently ranking at the top.
Often used to describe someone who is proactive or sets a positive example in a group setting.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
Use '一马当先' to describe someone who proactively takes charge or sets a positive example, not for literal horse-riding scenarios.
Gold Rule
Idiom vs. Literal Meaning
Always check if the context implies leadership or initiative. Avoid using this idiom for physical horse-riding or literal horse-related activities.
Word Origin
Originates from the ancient Chinese strategy game '象棋' (xiangqi), where the horse (马) piece often moves first to control the board. The idiom metaphorically extends this concept to leadership and initiative.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to praise someone's proactive attitude or leadership. Avoid using in contexts where literal horse-riding is implied.