企图

• Pinyin: qǐ tú
• Hanzi breakdown: 企 = 人 (person) + 止 (stop) — standing on tiptoe; 图 = 囗 (enclosure) + 啚 — a map or plan

Meaning

To attempt; to scheme; an attempt. Often implies an ulterior motive or a plan that may fail or be disapproved.

Unlike neutral words for 'try' like 尝试, 企图 often carries negative connotations — suggesting scheming, plotting, or attempts that are likely to fail or are morally questionable. Used in news reports about crimes, political maneuvering, or failed schemes. Can be used as both verb and noun.

Examples

1. 警方挫败了一起企图抢劫银行的犯罪活动。 The police foiled a criminal attempt to rob a bank.
2. 他企图掩盖真相，但最终还是被发现了。 He attempted to cover up the truth, but was eventually discovered.
3. 她的企图很明显，大家都看出来了。 Her intentions were obvious — everyone could see through them.

Usage Guide

Context: news, legal, critical

Tone: critical

Do Say

• 他们的企图不会得逞。(Their scheme will not succeed.)
• 警方正在调查他的企图。(The police are investigating his intentions.)

Don't Say

• 不要用'企图'表示正当的尝试 (Don't use 企图 for legitimate attempts — it implies scheming or wrongdoing; use 尝试 or 试图 instead)

Origin & History

Compound of 企 (to stand on tiptoe, to hope for) and 图 (to plan, to scheme). Together they suggest planning with eager anticipation, often with negative implications.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal