果断

• Pinyin: guǒ duàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 果 = 木 (tree) + 田 (field) — fruit on a tree; 断 = 斤 (axe) + 糸 (thread) — cutting through decisively

Meaning

Decisive; resolute in making decisions without hesitation or wavering.

Describes the quality of acting with clear judgement and firm resolve, especially under pressure or in complex situations. Highly valued in leadership contexts. Contrasted with 优柔寡断 (indecisive) or 犹豫不决 (hesitant).

Examples

1. 面对突发危机，领导者必须果断处置，不能拖延。 In a sudden crisis, leaders must act decisively and not delay.
2. 她在谈判中表现得异常果断，很快促成了协议签署。 She was exceptionally decisive in the negotiations and quickly made the agreement happen.
3. 关键时刻，果断的决策往往能将损失降到最低。 At critical moments, decisive decisions often minimize losses.

Usage Guide

Context: leadership, decision-making, workplace, crisis management

Tone: commendatory

Do Say

• 在市场瞬息万变的今天，企业家必须具备果断决策的能力。(In today's rapidly changing market, entrepreneurs must possess the ability to make decisive decisions.)
• 他果断地拒绝了那份看似丰厚但暗藏风险的合同。(He decisively rejected that seemingly lucrative but risk-laden contract.)

Don't Say

• 他果断地买了个冰淇淋 — 果断 implies significant, consequential decisions; for trivial choices use 毫不犹豫 or 直接

Origin & History

果 (result, certainly) + 断 (to decide, to cut off)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal