zi6 koeng4 bat1 sik1自強不息自强不息
Jyutpingzi6 koeng4 bat1 sik1
Yalejih kèuhng bāt sīk
Definition
To strive continuously and tirelessly by one's own efforts; to never give up.
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How it's used
This is a formal idiom rooted in classical Chinese literature, specifically the I Ching. While it carries a very positive and encouraging tone, it is rarely used in casual, everyday small talk. It is most commonly heard in speeches, school mottos, or when someone is being praised for their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Examples
He has always strived hard without letting up, and finally succeeded.
Even when you face difficulties, you must strive hard and not give up.
Related words
Common phrases
the spirit of striving hard without letting up
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb phrase used in daily life. Because it is a four character idiom, using it in a very informal setting, such as describing someone eating lunch or catching a bus, will sound unnatural and overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
