有始有终
有始有终 (yǒu shǐ yǒu zhōng) literally means “have a beginning and an end” and expresses “persevere to completion”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance.
Also searched as: you shi you zhong, you shi you zhong,有始有终 meaning, 有始有终 in english
Persevere to completion
Pronunciation: yǒu shǐ yǒu zhōng Literal meaning: Have a beginning and an end
Origin & Usage
The idiom 有始有终 (yǒu shǐ yǒu zhōng) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to emphasize the importance of perseverance and seeing things through to completion. The phrase literally translates to 'having a beginning and having an end,' highlighting the virtue of consistency and dedication in any endeavor. While there is no specific historical story associated with this idiom, it paints a vivid image of starting a task (始, beginning) and carrying it through to its conclusion (终, end). In modern usage, it encourages individuals to maintain their efforts and commitment until their goals are fully realized, reflecting the value of persistence and thoroughness in achieving success.
Examples
English: "He approached the project with commitment, ensuring it was completed successfully."
Chinese: 有始有终，才能把事情做好。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
一鸣惊人
yī míng jīng rén
Sudden, remarkable success
Learn more →
百折不挠
bǎi zhé bù náo
Unshakeable despite adversity
Learn more →
水滴石穿
shuǐ dī shí chuān
Persistence achieves anything
Learn more →
门庭若市
mén tíng ruò shì
Extremely popular
Learn more →
天道酬勤
tiān dào chóu qín
Heaven rewards diligence
Learn more →
破釜沉舟
pò fǔ chén zhōu
Commit with no retreat
Learn more →
守时如金
shǒu shí rú jīn
Value time preciously
Learn more →
青出于蓝
qīng chū yú lán
Student surpasses master
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 有始有终 mean in English?
有始有终 (yǒu shǐ yǒu zhōng) literally translates to “Have a beginning and an end” and is used to express “Persevere to completion”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 有始有终 used?
Situation: He approached the project with commitment, ensuring it was completed successfully.
What is the pinyin for 有始有终?
The pinyin pronunciation for 有始有终 is “yǒu shǐ yǒu zhōng”.