自力更生

• Pinyin: zì lì gēng shēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 自 = 目 + 丿 (self); 力 = power; 更 = 一 + 曰 + 丿 + 乂 (change); 生 = life

Meaning

Self-reliance; regeneration through one's own efforts. To achieve development through one's own strength without external help.

A key political and philosophical concept emphasizing independence and self-sufficiency. Historically important in Chinese development policy. Encourages relying on one's own resources rather than depending on others.

Examples

1. 年轻人应该学会自力更生。 Young people should learn to be self-reliant.
2. 这个国家坚持自力更生的发展道路。 This country sticks to a path of development based on self-reliance.
3. 他自力更生创办了自己的企业。 He built his own business through his own efforts.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, personal development, business

Tone: encouraging

Do Say

• 在困难时期，我们要发扬自力更生的精神。(In difficult times, we must promote the spirit of self-reliance.)
• 自力更生是创业成功的关键。(Self-reliance is the key to entrepreneurial success.)

Don't Say

• 我今天自力更生做了饭 — too grandiose for daily tasks; use 自己 instead

Origin & History

自力 (one's own strength) + 更生 (regenerate, renew)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal