死而后已
死而后已 (sǐ ér hòu yǐ) literally means “only stop after death” and expresses “continue until death; lifelong commitment”. 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: si er hou yi, si er hou yi,死而后已 meaning, 死而后已 in english
Continue until death; lifelong commitment
Pronunciation: sǐ ér hòu yǐ
Literal meaning: Only stop after death
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes stopping (已) only after (后) death (死). Often paired with 鞠躬尽瘁, it completes Zhuge Liang's famous statement of lifelong dedication. The phrase represents commitment that only death can end. Modern usage describes unwavering dedication to principles or causes, the resolve to continue fighting until one's final breath.
Examples
English: "His commitment to justice continued until his last day."
Chinese: 他对正义的追求死而后已。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 死而后已 mean in English?
死而后已 (sǐ ér hòu yǐ) literally translates to “Only stop after death” and is used to express “Continue until death; lifelong commitment”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 死而后已 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving continue until death; lifelong commitment.
What is the pinyin for 死而后已?
The pinyin pronunciation for 死而后已 is “sǐ ér hòu yǐ”.