烈士

• Pinyin: liè shì
• Hanzi breakdown: 烈 = 歹 + 灬 (fierce/ardent — fire burning intensely); 士 = 一 + 十 (scholar-warrior — a person of rank and principle)

Meaning

Martyr; revolutionary hero who died for a cause. One who sacrificed their life for the nation, a cause, or a belief.

In modern Chinese, 烈士 specifically refers to those recognised by the state as having died in the line of duty for the nation or revolution, particularly soldiers and revolutionary figures. In classical Chinese, it also referred to people of noble ambition. The term carries deep reverence and is used solemnly in official, historical, and commemorative contexts. Commemorated annually on Martyrs' Day (烈士纪念日, 30 September).

Examples

1. 广场中央矗立着一座巍峨的烈士纪念碑，铭刻着为国捐躯的英雄名字。 In the center of the square stands a towering martyrs’ memorial, engraved with the names of heroes who gave their lives for the country.
2. 政府为所有在战斗中牺牲的士兵颁发了烈士证书，以表彰他们的英勇奉献。 The government issued martyr certificates to all soldiers who died in battle, honoring their courageous dedication.
3. 她自幼在烈士家庭中长大，对先辈的革命精神有着深厚的情感认同。 She grew up in a martyr’s family and feels a deep emotional connection to her forebears’ revolutionary spirit.

Usage Guide

Context: national commemoration, history, political discourse

Tone: reverent

Do Say

• 每年清明节，学校都会组织学生前往烈士陵园祭扫，缅怀先烈的光辉事迹。(Every year during the Qingming Festival, schools organise students to visit martyrs' cemeteries to pay their respects and commemorate the glorious deeds of revolutionary heroes.)
• 这位烈士在敌后战场上秘密工作多年，最终以生命诠释了对国家的无限忠诚。(This martyr worked secretly behind enemy lines for many years, ultimately demonstrating boundless loyalty to the nation with his life.)

Don't Say

• 将'烈士'用于一般的牺牲行为或轻描淡写的场合 — 该词具有极高的庄严性，仅用于为国家或崇高事业献出生命者

Origin & History

烈 (fierce/ardent — burning with intensity and conviction) + 士 (scholar-warrior/person of principle — a person of high moral standing)

Cultural Context

Era: Modern (1840–present)

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal