算盘珠 - Chinese Idiom

算盘珠

Literally means:

on an abacus

Actually means:

plan; calculation

The abacus is a traditional Chinese calculating tool. It is made of a wooden rectangular frame in which there are a beam and 13 sticks. Each stick is equipped with 7 movable beads. By moving them manually, a person can do arithmetic calculations.

This phrase figuratively refers to a person who lacks initiative and is kept under others" control. It also refers to careful calculation or reflection.

中国的传统计数工具。在一个长方形的的木框里设一根横梁和十三根细棍，每根棍子穿了七个可以上下移动的，用手拨动珠子，可进行加减乘除的运算。

算盘珠，比喻做事不主动的人，或受人支配的人。也指反复计算或考虑。