Meaning
“To act in collusion like a wolf and a jackal” refers to two or more bad people working together to do something evil or dishonest. It describes malicious cooperation, often used to condemn unethical alliances.
Word breakdown
- 狼 (láng) – wolf
- 狈 (bèi) – a mythical animal often paired with the wolf, similar to a jackal
- 为 (wéi) – to become, to act as
- 奸 (jiān) – wickedness, treachery
Together, the idiom means that two villains are teaming up to do something harmful.
Historical Origin
The idiom is rooted in early Chinese literature and legend. “狼狈” was originally thought to be the name of a single mythical creature made from a wolf and another animal fused together—awkward and dangerous in appearance and nature.
Over time, “狼狈” became a general term meaning a difficult or awkward situation. However, in the idiom 狼狈为奸, it retains the original connotation of two similar, dangerous creatures acting together.
The expression was used historically to describe two corrupt officials or conspirators joining forces to harm others or society.
Modern Usage
狼狈为奸 is used to criticize people who form alliances for bad or dishonest purposes. It implies both parties are morally corrupt and knowingly cooperating for selfish gain.
Example situations
- Two corrupt politicians secretly profiting together
- A scammer and a complicit accomplice
- A student cheating with the help of a dishonest teacher
Example sentences
- 那两家公司表面上竞争，其实早就狼狈为奸，操控市场。
(Those two companies appear to be competitors, but in reality they’re colluding behind the scenes.) - 他和黑帮狼狈为奸，最终被警方逮捕。
(He worked hand-in-hand with the gang and was eventually arrested by the police.)
Short Story
小李和小张一起在公司做假账，骗取奖金。他们互相掩护，不让别人发现。
后来公司查账时发现问题，两人都被开除了。
同事们说：“他们早就狼狈为奸，迟早要出事。”
English Translation
Xiao Li and Xiao Zhang worked together to falsify financial records and cheat the company out of bonuses. They covered for each other so no one would notice.
Eventually, the company audited the accounts and discovered the fraud. Both were fired.
Their coworkers said, “They were colluding all along—it was only a matter of time before they got caught.”
Traditional Chinese Characters
狼狽為姦
Conclusion
狼狈为奸 is a strong expression used to expose and criticize corrupt alliances. It reminds us that when bad people work together, the damage is often greater—and that eventually, the truth tends to surface. The idiom warns against immoral cooperation and encourages accountability.