# 狡兔三窟

jiǎo tù sān kū

Keep several routes of escape or backup plans

## Meaning & wording

**Literally:** A crafty rabbit has three burrows

**Register:** Strategic · literary

[Choices & judgment](https://chinese-idioms.yudis.dev/idioms/topics/decisions)

## When to use it

Describe prudent fallback options or evasive preparation.

Can imply cunning; three is not a required literal number.

## Understanding the expression

A rabbit with several burrows is not trapped when one shelter becomes unsafe. The expression describes keeping alternative arrangements available rather than depending on one route. It may praise preparedness or imply a schemer's evasiveness. Backup files, multiple suppliers, and escape plans can all carry the image. The number expresses multiplicity, not a fixed checklist. The surrounding context decides whether these alternatives protect legitimate interests or help avoid deserved accountability.

## Examples

做数据备份要有狡兔三窟的意识。

### Traditional Chinese

做數據備份要有狡兔三窟的意識。

zuò shù jù bèi fèn yào yǒu jiǎo tù sān kū de yì shí 。

Data backup requires multiple fallback options.

他狡兔三窟，准备了几处藏身地。

### Traditional Chinese

他狡兔三窟，準備了幾處藏身地。

tā jiǎo tù sān kū ， zhǔn bèi le jǐ chù cáng shēn dì 。

He prepared several hiding places like a crafty rabbit.

只靠一个客户不稳，应该狡兔三窟。

### Traditional Chinese

只靠一個客戶不穩，應該狡兔三窟。

zhī kào yí gè kè hù bù wěn ， yīng gāi jiǎo tù sān kū 。

Relying on one client is risky; keep alternatives.

警方查到了骗子狡兔三窟的安排。

### Traditional Chinese

警方查到了騙子狡兔三窟的安排。

jǐng fāng chá dào le piàn zi jiǎo tù sān kū de ān pái 。

Police uncovered the scammer's multiple escape arrangements.

## Sources & reference checks

Original explanations and examples from Chinese Idioms Almanac. Source-checked October 6, 2026.

- [CC-CEDICT · forms & pronunciation](https://www.mdbg.net/chinese/dictionary?page=worddict&wdqb=%E7%8B%A1%E5%85%94%E4%B8%89%E7%AA%9F)

- [Ministry of Education · 成語典](https://dict.idioms.moe.edu.tw/idiomView.jsp?ID=512&webMd=1&la=0)

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