soeng5 zeon3 sam1上進心上进心
Jyutpingsoeng5 zeon3 sam1
Yaleséuhng jeun sām
Definition
The drive, motivation, or ambition to improve oneself, especially in studies or work.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the drive to improve one's own status or skills, often used to praise someone's character in a professional or academic setting. It implies a positive, proactive attitude rather than just a desire for money or fame. When describing someone who lacks this drive, people often use the phrase 冇心機.
Examples
He is a very ambitious person who always wants to learn new things.
Do you think he has any ambition?
Related words
Common phrases
very ambitious
lacking ambition
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 貪心, which means greedy. While both involve a desire for more, 上進心 is about personal growth and achievement, whereas 貪心 is about wanting more material possessions or advantages.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
