自尊心

• Pinyin: zì zūn xīn
• Hanzi breakdown: 自 = 自 (self); 尊 = 酉 + 寸 (to respect); 心 = 心 (heart/mind)

Meaning

Sense of self-respect; ego; pride. The internal feeling of one's own dignity and worth, and the sensitivity to perceived slights against it.

More emotionally charged than 自尊 alone, often implying the psychological vulnerability tied to one's dignity. 自尊心强 can be positive or negative depending on context. Key in discussions of child-rearing, interpersonal conflict, and mental health.

Examples

1. 批评孩子时应注意方式方法，避免伤害其自尊心。 When criticizing children, you should be mindful of your approach to avoid hurting their self-esteem.
2. 他的自尊心极强，轻微的批评也会让他感到受挫。 He has a very strong ego, and even mild criticism can make him feel discouraged.
3. 她鼓励团队成员在工作中保护好自己的自尊心，同时也尊重他人。 She encouraged team members to protect their self-esteem at work while also respecting others.

Usage Guide

Context: psychology, education, interpersonal

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 在给予反馈时，管理者应兼顾效果与对方的自尊心。(When giving feedback, managers should balance effectiveness with the recipient's sense of self-respect.)
• 青少年时期的挫折往往会对自尊心造成深远的影响。(Setbacks during adolescence can often have a profound impact on one's sense of self-worth.)

Don't Say

• 自尊心很大 — 自尊心 is not measured by size; use 自尊心很强 or 自尊心极高 to indicate a strong or heightened sense of pride

Origin & History

自尊 (self-respect) + 心 (heart/mind) — the inner sense of personal dignity

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal