Crouching Tiger

Stalking big cat

A crouching tiger is poised low, legs coiled, ready to spring—the posture of ambush predators before they strike.

The phrase evokes hidden power and imminent action.

It gained wide currency from the 2000 film *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*, whose title draws on Chinese imagery of concealed strength: She's a crouching tiger in negotiations—quiet until she pounces.

Related
  • hiddenKept out of sight
  • dragonLegendary fire-breathing reptile
  • Ang LeeTaiwanese-American film director
  • martialRelating to warfare
  • artsCreative disciplines collectively

Michelle Yeoh · kung · Lee · wuxia · martial arts · kung fu · sword fight · bamboo · forest · swords · leaping · rooftops · silk · warrior · graceful · prowling · pounce · stealth

Categories
Opposites
predatory intent

Crouching Tigercharging bull

Symbol of market optimism

FILM TITLE CONTRAST (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon)

Crouching Tigerflying dragon

Gliding lizard genus

Family

crouch, crouches, crouched, crouching, tiger, tigers, tigerish, tigress

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG