斗争

• Pinyin: dòu zhēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 斗 = pictograph of two hands fighting or a ladle-shaped vessel used in measuring — to fight; 争 = hand (爪) grasping — to compete

Meaning

To struggle; to fight; struggle; conflict. Can refer to physical fighting, political struggle, or personal battles against difficulties.

Historically loaded term, frequently used in political contexts during the Mao era (阶级斗争 class struggle). Today used more broadly for any kind of conflict or struggle. 内心斗争 means internal struggle. Can function as both verb and noun.

Examples

1. 他一直在和病魔斗争，从来没有放弃过希望。 He has been fighting against illness and has never given up hope.
2. 这部电影讲述了普通人为争取权利而斗争的故事。 This movie tells the story of ordinary people struggling for their rights.
3. 工作和家庭之间的平衡，对很多人来说是一场长期斗争。 Balancing work and family is a long-term struggle for many people.

Usage Guide

Context: political, social, personal

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 我们要和一切不公正的现象作斗争。(We must fight against all unjust phenomena.)
• 经过多年斗争，工人们终于获得了应有的权益。(After years of struggle, the workers finally gained their deserved rights.)

Don't Say

• 在轻松场合用斗争描述小分歧 (Don't use 斗争 for minor disagreements — it implies serious, sustained conflict)

Origin & History

Compound of 斗 (to fight, to contend) + 争 (to compete, to strive). Both characters historically related to conflict; combined they intensify the meaning.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal