- 识时务 shíshíwù insightfulto have a clear and discerning understanding of the current situation and trends of the times
- 不识时务 bùshíshíwù out of touchshowing no understanding of the times or current trends
- 识时务者为俊杰 shíshíwùzhěwéijùnjié wise pragmatista wise person adapts to changing circumstances