自告奋勇(自告奮勇)
自告奋勇 (zì gào fèn yǒng) literally means “self-recommend with vigor and courage”and expresses “volunteer bravely; step forward willingly”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships & character.
Also searched as: zi gao fen yong, zi gao fen yong,自告奋勇 meaning, 自告奋勇 in english
Pronunciation: zì gào fèn yǒng Literal meaning: Self-recommend with vigor and courage
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes volunteering (自告) with vigor (奋) and courage (勇), emphasizing initiative and bravery in stepping forward. The phrase combines self-nomination with the qualities needed to follow through. It appeared in historical texts describing brave soldiers or officials who volunteered for dangerous missions. The idiom values proactive contribution over passive waiting. Modern usage praises those who voluntarily take on challenges, especially difficult or risky ones that others avoid.
When to Use
Situation: She volunteered to lead the difficult project.
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
不远千里
bù yuǎn qiān lǐ
Willingly travel far; make great efforts
Learn more →
朝思暮想
zhāo sī mù xiǎng
Think about constantly; yearn for
Learn more →
魂牵梦萦
hún qiān mèng yíng
Yearn day and night
Learn more →
恋恋不舍
liàn liàn bù shě
Be deeply reluctant to leave
Learn more →
难分难舍
nán fēn nán shě
Be inseparable; hate to part
Learn more →
海枯石烂
hǎi kū shí làn
Until the end of time; eternal love
Learn more →
一见钟情
yī jiàn zhōng qíng
Love at first sight
Learn more →
白头偕老
bái tóu xié lǎo
Grow old together; lifelong partnership
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 自告奋勇 mean in English?
自告奋勇 (zì gào fèn yǒng) literally translates to “Self-recommend with vigor and courage”and is used to express “Volunteer bravely; step forward willingly”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theRelationships & Character category..
When is 自告奋勇 used?
Situation: She volunteered to lead the difficult project.
What is the pinyin for 自告奋勇?
The pinyin pronunciation for 自告奋勇 is “zì gào fèn yǒng”.