负重前行
负重前行 (fù zhòng qián xíng) literally means “carry weight march forward” and expresses “progress despite difficulties”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: fu zhong qian xing, fu zhong qian xing,负重前行 meaning, 负重前行 in english
Progress despite difficulties
Pronunciation: fù zhòng qián xíng
Literal meaning: Carry weight march forward
Origin & Usage
Emerging from Tang Dynasty (618-907) Buddhist texts, this idiom depicts the image of carrying (负) weight (重) while marching (行) forward (前). It originally described the bodhisattva's dedication to helping others while pursuing enlightenment. The metaphor resonated with Confucian scholars who saw public service as a similar burden of responsibility. In contemporary usage, it captures the essence of persevering through difficulties while bearing responsibilities - from entrepreneurs maintaining businesses through crises to individuals supporting families through hardship. The imagery emphasizes dignified endurance rather than mere survival.
Examples
English: "Despite family obligations, she continued pursuing her education"
Chinese: 尽管有家庭责任，她仍然继续追求教育
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
大显身手
dà xiǎn shēn shǒu
To show off one's abilities
Learn more →
一心一意
yī xīn yī yì
Wholeheartedly; with undivided attention
Learn more →
脚踏实地
jiǎo tà shí dì
Being practical and down-to-earth
Learn more →
后来居上
hòu lái jū shàng
Latecomers surpass the early starters
Learn more →
循序渐进
xún xù jiàn jìn
Progress step by step
Learn more →
马到成功
mǎ dào chéng gōng
Achieve immediate success
Learn more →
虎头蛇尾
hǔ tóu shé wěi
Strong start with weak finish
Learn more →
海底捞针
hǎi dǐ lāo zhēn
Attempt an extremely difficult search
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 负重前行 mean in English?
负重前行 (fù zhòng qián xíng) literally translates to “Carry weight march forward” and is used to express “Progress despite difficulties”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 负重前行 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving progress despite difficulties.
What is the pinyin for 负重前行?
The pinyin pronunciation for 负重前行 is “fù zhòng qián xíng”.