自负

• Pinyin: zì fù
• Hanzi breakdown: 自 = 目 + 丿 (self); 负 = 刀 + 贝 (bear)

Meaning

Conceited; arrogant; or to bear responsibility oneself. Either excessive self-regard or self-responsibility.

Has two distinct meanings: as an adjective, describes someone overly proud and looking down on others; as a verb, means to take personal responsibility for consequences. Context determines which meaning applies.

Examples

1. 他性格自负，很难与人相处。 He’s conceited, which makes him hard to get along with.
2. 后果自负，与本公司无关。 You are responsible for any consequences; the company is not liable.
3. 年轻人不要太自负。 Young people shouldn’t be too arrogant.

Usage Guide

Context: personality, legal, warnings

Tone: critical

Do Say

• 投资有风险，盈亏自负。(Investment carries risk; profits and losses are your own responsibility.)
• 他太自负了，听不进别人的意见。(He is too conceited to listen to others' opinions.)

Don't Say

• 我自负地完成了 — if meaning proud of achievement, use 自豪 instead

Origin & History

自 (self) + 负 (bear, rely on)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal