Literally means the Yangtze River flows east; used as a metaphor for the unstoppable passage of time or an irresistible historical force

one's elders and people from one's hometown; specifically refers to those whose support one relies on but whom one has disappointed. Originally referred to the people of the region east of the Yangtze River who supported the general [[项羽|項羽|xiang4 yu3]] during his rise and fall.

To be unable to return home after a failure because of extreme shame or disgrace; originally referring to the general [[项羽|項羽|xiang4 yu3]] choosing suicide over returning to his home region in defeat.