敬业

• Pinyin: jìng yè
• Hanzi breakdown: 敬 = reverence and action; 业 = 丵 (many plants growing) + 巾 (cloth) — work, vocation

Meaning

To be dedicated to one's work; to be professional and conscientious.

Describes a strong work ethic — taking one's duties seriously and giving full effort regardless of recognition or reward. Considered a high virtue in Chinese professional culture. Often used in performance reviews, commendations, and character assessments. Contrasts with 敷衍 (going through the motions) or 混日子 (coasting through).

Examples

1. 她是公认的敬业精神最强的员工，无论多晚都会把工作做完再回家。 She is widely recognised as the employee with the strongest work ethic — she always finishes her work before going home, no matter how late it gets.
2. 那位老医生几十年如一日，敬业精神令同事和患者都深为感动。 That veteran doctor has been the same for decades — his dedication has deeply moved both colleagues and patients.
3. 敬业不仅是职业道德的体现，更是个人品格的一部分。 Dedication is not only an expression of professional ethics but also part of one's personal character.

Usage Guide

Context: work ethic, professional praise, HR, social values

Tone: commendatory

Do Say

• 他工作认真负责，是一个非常敬业的人。(He is responsible and conscientious — a truly dedicated professional.)
• 敬业的态度是职场成功的基础。(A dedicated attitude is the foundation of professional success.)

Don't Say

• 我很敬业，所以我去度假了。(敬业 implies being fully committed to work duties — it cannot justify taking time off unless you frame it carefully)

Origin & History

敬 (to respect, to take seriously) + 业 (work, profession). Together: to take one's profession seriously. Rooted in Confucian values of earnest, attentive conduct in one's designated role.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal