劲头

• Pinyin: jìn tou
• Hanzi breakdown: 劲 = 坙 + 力 (strength) — vigor, energy; 头 = nominalizing suffix

Meaning

Enthusiasm; vigor; drive. The energy or motivation to do something.

Describes the spirit, energy, or zeal with which someone approaches a task. Can be positive (eager enthusiasm) or imply a certain stubbornness or determination. Colloquial and commonly used in everyday speech.

Examples

1. 他干活的劲头特别足，一点都不觉得累。 His enthusiasm for work is especially strong; he doesn't feel tired at all.
2. 刚入职时的那股劲头，现在怎么都找不回来了。 That drive I had when I first started the job — I can't find it anymore.
3. 看到他学习的劲头，老师们都很欣慰。 Seeing his enthusiasm for studying, the teachers were all pleased.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday speech, encouragement, observation

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 劲头很足。(Full of enthusiasm.)
• 鼓足劲头。(Muster up one's energy.)

Don't Say

• 你的劲头很大 (Don't use 大 with 劲头 — use 足 (full) or 高 (high) instead; 劲头很足 is the natural collocation)

Origin & History

Composed of 劲 (strength; energy; spirit) + 头 (nominalizing suffix). Together meaning the spirit or energy (for doing something).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal