成才

• Pinyin: chéng cái
• Hanzi breakdown: 成 = 戊 (weapon) + 丁 (nail) = to accomplish; 才 = pictograph of a sprout emerging

Meaning

To become a useful person; to develop into a talented individual. Emphasizes personal growth and achievement.

A key concept in Chinese education and parenting. Implies not just success but becoming a person of value to society. Often used by parents and teachers when discussing children's futures. Carries strong cultural weight.

Examples

1. 父母都希望自己的孩子能够成才。 All parents hope their children can become successful and talented individuals.
2. 条条大路通罗马，成才的方式有很多种。 All roads lead to Rome; there are many ways to become a capable person.
3. 他从小就刻苦学习，最终成才成为一名科学家。 He studied hard from a young age and eventually became a successful scientist.

Usage Guide

Context: education, family, personal development

Tone: aspirational

Do Say

• 读书不是成才的唯一途径。(Going to school is not the only path to becoming successful.)
• 老师的悉心教导帮助很多学生成才。(The teacher's careful guidance helped many students develop their talents.)

Don't Say

• 他已经成才了 for simply getting a job (成才 implies significant achievement, not just employment)

Origin & History

Compound of 成 (to become, accomplish) and 才 (talent, ability). Literally 'to become a talent.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal