刚毅

• Pinyin: gāng yì
• Hanzi breakdown: 刚 = 冂 + 刂 (hard, unyielding — knife component suggests sharpness); 毅 = 豙 + 殳 (strong determination)

Meaning

Resolute and unyielding; possessing a firm, strong character that does not bend under pressure or adversity.

A literary and formal descriptor for admirable strength of character. Combines 刚 (hardness, firmness) and 毅 (perseverance, determination). Often applied to historical figures, military leaders, or exemplary individuals. More elevated in register than 坚强 or 顽强.

Examples

1. 这位将领以刚毅的意志带领部队走过了漫长而艰难的长征岁月。 With resolute will, this commander led his troops through the long and grueling years of the Long March.
2. 她的目光透露出一种刚毅的神色，让对方意识到任何威胁都不会令她退缩。 Her eyes showed a resolute steadiness that made the other person realize no threat would make her back down.
3. 面对接连不断的打击，他展现出了常人难以企及的刚毅品格。 In the face of blow after blow, he displayed a toughness of character that most people could hardly match.

Usage Guide

Context: literary, history, military, character

Tone: admiring

Do Say

• 她在逆境中展现出的刚毅气质令所有认识她的人深感敬佩。(The resolute character she displayed in adversity earned the deep admiration of all who knew her.)
• 这部传记详细描述了这位革命先烈刚毅不屈的精神与他所经历的种种磨难。(This biography gives a detailed account of the revolutionary martyr's unyielding spirit and the many hardships he endured.)

Don't Say

• 他刚毅地拒绝了邀请 — 刚毅 describes a stable character trait, not a single act; use 断然 or 坚决地 for a specific resolute action

Origin & History

刚 (firm/hard) + 毅 (resolute/determined)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal