Chinese word

意志

Pronunciation

Pinyinyì zhì

Meaning

  • nounwill

Example

面对困难，她的意志没有动摇。miàn duì kùn nán tā de yì zhì méi yǒu dòng yáo

In the face of difficulties, her will does not waver.

Illustration for 意志 (will)

More examples

长期的训练可以增强一个人的意志。cháng qī de xùn liàn ké yǐ zēng qiáng yí gè rén de yì zhì

Long-term training can strengthen a person's will.

Core concept

An inner force that turns a firm decision into steady action, especially when difficulties resist it.

Common phrases

  • 坚定的意志jiān dìng de yì zhì

    firm will

  • 培养意志péi yǎng yì zhì

    develop willpower

  • 考验意志kǎo yàn yì zhì

    test one's will

Similar words

决心jué xīn: A strong decision made before starting an action.
意志力yì zhì lì: The self-control to follow a decision despite temptation and fatigue.
毅力yì lì: The perseverance to continue making an effort through long periods of difficulty.

Definition in Chinese

表示人内心决定做某事并努力去实现的心理状态或力量。biǎo shì rén nèi xīn jué dìng zuò mǒu shì bìng nǔ lì qù shí xiàn de xīn lǐ zhuàng tài huò lì liàng

Word origin

意 (yì, "intention") + 志 (zhì, "aspiration") joins an inner aim with the resolve to pursue it, forming the idea of willpower.

Usage tips

  • In everyday conversation, this noun sounds formal and serious, so it fits sustained effort under pressure better than a casual choice or preference.

Related words

  • 意志力yì zhì lìwillpowernoun

Word lists with this word