斗志

• Pinyin: dòu zhì
• Hanzi breakdown: 斗 = fight; 志 = 士 (soldier) + 心 (heart) — will or aspiration

Meaning

Fighting spirit; the will, determination, and morale to face challenges or adversaries.

Used in competitive, military, and motivational contexts. 斗志昂扬 (full of fighting spirit) is a very common set phrase. 斗志旺盛 (vigorous fighting spirit) is also common. Reflects the cultural value of tenacious perseverance under pressure.

Examples

1. 队员们在教练的激励下，重新燃起了强烈的斗志。 Encouraged by the coach, the players rekindled a strong fighting spirit.
2. 面对接二连三的挫折，他的斗志始终没有消沉。 In the face of setback after setback, his fighting spirit never faded.
3. 进入决赛阶段，全队斗志昂扬，誓夺冠军。 As they entered the finals, the whole team’s morale was sky-high, determined to win the championship.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, military, motivation

Tone: inspiring

Do Say

• 长时间的高压训练没有击垮他，反而让他的斗志愈发旺盛。(Long periods of high-pressure training didn't break him — instead, his fighting spirit grew even stronger.)
• 看到落后的比分，全队立刻调整状态，重新激发斗志。(Seeing the losing score, the whole team immediately adjusted their mindset and reignited their fighting spirit.)

Don't Say

• 我没有斗志去做作业 — 斗志 implies competitive or adversarial struggle; for everyday motivation say 没有动力 or 提不起劲

Origin & History

斗 (fight/struggle) + 志 (will/determination)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal