精疲力竭

• Pinyin: jīng pí lì jié
• Hanzi breakdown: 精 = essence/spirit; 疲 = 疒 (illness) + 皮 (skin), tired; 力 = strength; 竭 = exhaust/deplete

Meaning

Utterly exhausted; completely worn out both mentally and physically.

Describes a state of total exhaustion where one's energy and strength are completely depleted. Stronger than simply 'tired' — implies being drained to the point of having nothing left. Often used after intense work, exercise, or prolonged stress.

Examples

1. 连续加班一周后，她已经精疲力竭了。 After working overtime for a week straight, she was utterly exhausted.
2. 马拉松终点处，很多选手精疲力竭地倒在地上。 At the marathon finish line, many runners collapsed on the ground, completely spent.
3. 照顾三个孩子让她每天都精疲力竭。 Taking care of three kids leaves her exhausted every day.

Usage Guide

Context: work, sports, daily life

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 忙了一天，我已经精疲力竭了。(After a busy day, I'm completely exhausted.)
• 这场谈判让双方都精疲力竭。(This negotiation left both sides utterly exhausted.)

Don't Say

• 看了一集电视剧就精疲力竭了。(Too dramatic for minor activities — use 有点累 instead)

Origin & History

A classical compound: 精疲 (mentally exhausted) + 力竭 (physical strength depleted). Both parts reinforce the idea of complete exhaustion.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal