致力于

• Pinyin: zhì lì yú
• Hanzi breakdown: 致 = extend/deliver; 力 = strength/effort; 于 = to/toward

Meaning

To be devoted to; to commit oneself to. Dedicating one's efforts toward a particular cause or goal.

A formal expression of commitment. Common in institutional statements: 致力于发展 (committed to development), 致力于创新 (devoted to innovation). Implies sustained, purposeful effort toward important goals.

Examples

1. 这家基金会致力于改善贫困地区儿童的教育条件。 This foundation is dedicated to improving educational conditions for children in impoverished areas.
2. 科学家们致力于寻找治愈癌症的新方法。 Scientists are committed to finding new ways to cure cancer.
3. 公司多年来致力于环保技术的研发与应用。 For many years, the company has been devoted to developing and applying environmentally friendly technologies.

Usage Guide

Context: institutional, research, social causes

Tone: committed

Do Say

• 他一生致力于推动社会公平与正义。(He devoted his whole life to promoting social fairness and justice.)
• 我们致力于为客户提供最优质的服务体验。(We are committed to providing customers with the best quality service experience.)

Don't Say

• 我致力于看完这本书 — too formal for personal reading goals; use 努力 or 下决心

Origin & History

致力 (devote effort) + 于 (to/toward)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal