zong3 zi3壯志
Jyutpingzong3 zi3
Yalejong ji
Definition
Great ambition; lofty aspirations.
neutralemotion
How it's used
Refers specifically to a grand, noble, or heroic aspiration rather than just a career goal or personal desire. It often carries a slightly literary or dramatic weight, making it sound more profound than everyday words for ambition. You will frequently hear it paired with the idea of being unfulfilled or fading away as people grow older.
Examples
He has had burning ambition since he was small.
Do you still have that burning ambition from back in the day?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for mundane goals like wanting a promotion or buying a house, as it sounds overly grandiose and poetic for such contexts.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
