初衷

• Pinyin: chū zhōng
• Hanzi breakdown: 初 = 衤 (clothes) + 刀 (knife) = beginning; 衷 = 衣 (clothes) + 中 (middle) = inner feelings

Meaning

Original intention; initial purpose; original aspiration.

Refers to one's original goals, motivations, or intentions when starting something. Often used when reflecting on whether current actions align with original purposes. Common in discussions about ideals and principles.

Examples

1. 不管遇到什么困难，都不要忘记初衷。 No matter what difficulties you face, don't forget your original intention.
2. 他开公司的初衷是想帮助更多人。 His original intention in starting the company was to help more people.
3. 这个项目已经偏离了最初的初衷。 This project has strayed from its original purpose.

Usage Guide

Context: reflection, motivation, principles

Tone: earnest

Do Say

• 不忘初衷，方得始终。(Only by not forgetting your original intention can you succeed in the end.)
• 我们要坚守创业的初衷。(We must stay true to our original purpose for starting this business.)

Don't Say

• 我吃饭的初衷是饿了 (Too philosophical for mundane actions — 初衷 is for significant goals and motivations)

Origin & History

Compound of 初 (initial/beginning) and 衷 (inner feelings/heart). One's original heartfelt intention.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal