兢兢业业

• Pinyin: jīng jīng yè yè
• Hanzi breakdown: 兢 = 克 (overcome) + 克 (overcome), suggesting cautious effort; 业 = work, profession

Meaning

Conscientious and diligent; dedicated and meticulous in one's work.

Describes someone who approaches their duties with extreme care, seriousness, and dedication. Often used to praise employees, public servants, or anyone who takes their responsibilities seriously without cutting corners. Carries a sense of quiet, steady devotion rather than flashy achievement.

Examples

1. 老王在这家公司兢兢业业干了三十年，从没出过差错。 Old Wang worked conscientiously at this company for thirty years without ever making a mistake.
2. 她兢兢业业地照顾卧床的婆婆，从无怨言。 She diligently cares for her bedridden mother-in-law without a single complaint.
3. 基层干部们兢兢业业为群众服务，值得我们尊敬。 Grassroots cadres serve the people conscientiously and deserve our respect.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, evaluation, praise

Tone: commendatory

Do Say

• 他在岗位上兢兢业业，是我们学习的榜样。(He works conscientiously at his post and is a role model for us.)
• 这种兢兢业业的工作态度越来越少见了。(This kind of diligent work attitude is becoming rare.)

Don't Say

• 他玩游戏很兢兢业业。(Don't use for hobbies or leisure — the term specifically refers to work or duties)

Origin & History

From classical Chinese, originally meaning trembling with fear or caution. The reduplicated form 兢兢 emphasizes carefulness, combined with 业业 (diligent in work) to describe conscientious dedication.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal