自力更生
自力更生 (zì lì gēng shēng) literally means “self-strength regenerate life”and expresses “self-reliance without external dependence”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving success & perseverance.
Also searched as: zi li geng sheng, zi li geng sheng,自力更生 meaning, 自力更生 in english
Pronunciation: zì lì gēng shēng Literal meaning: Self-strength regenerate life
Origin & Usage
Buddhist concepts of spiritual self-regeneration took on powerful new meaning during China's early 20th century struggle for independence. This idea of using one's own strength (自力) to create renewed life (更生) became a national motto during the 1960s-70s when self-sufficiency was paramount. The phrase perfectly captured the determination to develop internal capabilities rather than rely on external support. Today it resonates from national policy to personal development, describing the creation of independent capabilities through internal resources.
When to Use
Situation: After the economic embargo, the nation developed independent industrial capacity
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
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独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
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别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
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独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
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独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
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出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
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功成名就
gōng chéng míng jiù
Achieve success and fame
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名利双收
míng lì shuāng shōu
Gain both fame and fortune
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 自力更生 mean in English?
自力更生 (zì lì gēng shēng) literally translates to “Self-strength regenerate life”and is used to express “Self-reliance without external dependence”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theSuccess & Perseverance category..
When is 自力更生 used?
Situation: After the economic embargo, the nation developed independent industrial capacity
What is the pinyin for 自力更生?
The pinyin pronunciation for 自力更生 is “zì lì gēng shēng”.