Meaning
This noun refers to the inner drive or motivation that pushes someone to improve themselves, work harder, and advance in life. It combines the concept of moving upward (上进) with heart/mind (心), representing the psychological quality of wanting to better oneself through effort and achievement.
Usage
Commonly used to describe someone's character or work ethic, often in contexts of education, career development, or personal growth. It's considered a positive quality in Chinese culture. Frequently appears in phrases like '有上进心' (has ambition/drive) or '缺乏上进心' (lacks motivation).
Examples
- 01这个年轻人很有上进心，每天都在努力学习。, .This young person is very ambitious and studies hard every day.
- 02父母希望孩子有上进心，将来能有好的发展。, .Parents hope their children will be motivated and have good prospects in the future.
Characters
Common collocations
- 有上进心to be ambitious/motivated
- 缺乏上进心to lack motivation
- 培养上进心to cultivate ambition
- 很有上进心to be very ambitious
Antonyms
Origin
The term literally means 'upward-advancing heart/mind.' It reflects the traditional Chinese value of continuous self-improvement and social advancement through personal effort.