自暴自弃
自暴自弃 (zì bào zì qì) literally means “self-ruin self-abandon” and expresses “despair and neglect”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy.
Also searched as: zi bao zi qi, zi bao zi qi,自暴自弃 meaning, 自暴自弃 in english
Despair and neglect
Pronunciation: zì bào zì qì Literal meaning: Self-ruin self-abandon
Origin & Usage
The idiom 自暴自弃 (zì bào zì qì) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a state of self-abandonment and despair. The characters 自 (zì) mean 'self,' 暴 (bào) means 'expose' or 'ruin,' and 弃 (qì) means 'abandon.' Together, they paint a vivid picture of someone who has given up on themselves and their potential. Although the exact origin is not tied to a specific historical text or event, the idiom conveys a powerful message about the dangers of losing hope and neglecting one's own well-being. In modern usage, it serves as a cautionary reminder to maintain self-respect and perseverance, even in challenging times.
Examples
English: "After losing his job, he fell into despair and gave up on life."
Chinese: 失去工作后，他自暴自弃，放弃了生活。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
一波三折
yī bō sān zhé
Many twists and turns
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改邪归正
gǎi xié guī zhèng
Return to righteousness
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好逸恶劳
hào yì wù láo
Love ease, hate work
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物极必反
wù jí bì fǎn
Extremes lead to reversal
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塞翁失马
sài wēng shī mǎ
Misfortune might be a blessing
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近水楼台
jìn shuǐ lóu tái
Advantage from close connections
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夜郎自大
yè láng zì dà
Overestimate oneself
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因果报应
yīn guǒ bào yìng
Actions have consequences
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 自暴自弃 mean in English?
自暴自弃 (zì bào zì qì) literally translates to “Self-ruin self-abandon” and is used to express “Despair and neglect”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 自暴自弃 used?
Situation: After losing his job, he fell into despair and gave up on life.
What is the pinyin for 自暴自弃?
The pinyin pronunciation for 自暴自弃 is “zì bào zì qì”.