诚恳

• Pinyin: chéng kěn
• Hanzi breakdown: 诚 = 讠(speech) + 成 (accomplish) = sincere; 恳 = 艮 (boundary) + 心 (heart) = earnest

Meaning

Sincere; earnest; genuine. Describes a heartfelt and honest attitude.

Used to describe attitudes, words, or behavior that are genuinely honest and without pretense. Often used for apologies, advice, or requests. Implies earnestness combined with humility.

Examples

1. 他诚恳地向大家道歉，承认了自己的错误。 He sincerely apologized to everyone and admitted his mistake.
2. 老板的态度非常诚恳，让我决定留下来继续工作。 The boss's attitude was very sincere, which made me decide to stay and continue working.
3. 她诚恳地请求对方给她一次改正的机会。 She earnestly requested that the other party give her a chance to make amends.

Usage Guide

Context: apology, requests, interpersonal

Tone: warm

Do Say

• 我诚恳地接受你的批评。(I sincerely accept your criticism.)
• 他的建议非常诚恳，值得考虑。(His advice is very sincere and worth considering.)

Don't Say

• 这块蛋糕很诚恳 (诚恳 only describes attitudes and people, not objects)

Origin & History

Compound of 诚 (sincere/honest) and 恳 (earnest/cordial). Both characters emphasize genuine, heartfelt sincerity.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal