奮 (fèn) - To exert oneself & to strive

奮Tone 4

fèn ｜ 16 strokes ｜ radical:

恩丰

奮 · fèn

To exert oneself;

to strive;

to rouse;

to put forth energy;

to flap wings.

To exert oneselfto striveto rouse

Usage highlights

To striveTo work hardTo be diligentTo be brave and fierceTo rouse oneselfTo flap wings

Synonyms

  • 努— to exert effort
  • 勤— diligent
  • 勉— to encourage; to strive

Antonyms

  • 惰— lazy
  • 怠— idle; negligent

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He worked hard to achieve his goal (努力工作).
  • The bird flapped its wings and flew away (奋翅高飞).
  • We must strive for progress (奋发图强).
  • The team fought bravely (奋勇作战).

Collocations

  • To strive(奋斗)
  • To work hard(奋力)
  • To be diligent(奋勉)
  • To be brave and fierce(奋勇)
  • To rouse oneself(奋起)
  • To flap wings(奋翼)

Idioms

  • To work with a will(奋发图强)
  • To rise bravely(奋不顾身)
  • To rise in resistance(奋起反抗)
  • To fight courageously(奋勇争先)
  • To rise vigorously(奋袂而起)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • The character 奮 depicts a bird struggling to fly out of a field, symbolizing vigorous effort and breaking free from constraints.
  • It embodies the Confucian and general cultural value of self-exertion, diligence, and relentless effort towards a goal.
  • Frequently used in motivational contexts, from personal improvement to national rejuvenation.

FAQ