认真

• Pinyin: rèn zhēn
• Hanzi breakdown: 认 = 讠(speech) + 人 (person); 真 = 十 (ten) + 目 (eye) + 一 + 八, meaning true or genuine

Meaning

Serious; earnest; conscientious. Describes a diligent and careful attitude.

A very positive adjective in Chinese, describing someone who takes things seriously and does their work carefully. Often used to praise students and workers. Can be used as an adjective before a noun or as an adverb before a verb, e.g. 认真学习 (study earnestly).

Examples

1. 她学习很认真。 She studies very earnestly.
2. 请你认真听。 Please listen carefully.
3. 他是一个认真的人。 He is a conscientious person.

Usage Guide

Context: work, study

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 你做事很认真。(You work very conscientiously.)
• 认真听老师说话。(Listen to the teacher carefully.)

Don't Say

• 他太认真了。(This can sound critical — implying someone is too serious or rigid. Use it carefully as it can be either praise or gentle criticism depending on tone)

Origin & History

A compound of 认 (to acknowledge/take seriously) and 真 (true/real), together meaning 'to take things as real and important.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal