坚决

• Pinyin: jiān jué
• Hanzi breakdown: 坚 = 又 (hand) + 土 (earth); 决 = 氵(water) + 夬 (notch/break) — water breaking through — decisive action

Meaning

Firm; resolute; determined; decisive. Describes a strong, unwavering stance or action with no hesitation or compromise.

Used to describe both attitudes and actions that are clear and uncompromising. Common patterns include 坚决反对 (firmly oppose), 坚决支持 (firmly support), 态度坚决 (attitude is resolute). It emphasises the clarity and strength of a decision rather than the process of perseverance (which is 坚持).

Examples

1. 他坚决反对这个不公平的决定。 He firmly opposes this unfair decision.
2. 面对困难，她的态度非常坚决。 Faced with difficulties, her attitude is very resolute.
3. 政府坚决打击腐败行为。 The government is firmly cracking down on corrupt behaviour.

Usage Guide

Context: opinion, politics, work, character

Tone: assertive

Do Say

• 他坚决不同意那个方案。(He firmly disagrees with that plan.)
• 我们要坚决维护自己的权利。(We must resolutely defend our own rights.)

Don't Say

• 她坚决地很高兴。(Don't use 坚决 with emotional states like 高兴 — it describes firm stances or actions, not feelings. Say 她非常高兴 or 她坚决地拒绝了.)

Origin & History

Compound of 坚 (firm, solid) and 决 (to decide, to resolve). Together they convey a firm and decisive resolution — an unwavering determination.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal