noun HSK 5
Traditional 鬥志
dòu zhì
fighting spirit · morale · will to fight

Meaning

斗志 refers to one's determination, competitive spirit, or willingness to struggle and persevere through challenges. It encompasses both mental resolve and the emotional drive to compete or overcome difficulties. The term is commonly used in contexts involving competition, sports, work challenges, or any situation requiring sustained effort and determination.

Usage

Native speakers use 斗志 most often in motivational contexts, sports commentary, military/work settings, and when discussing someone's mental state facing challenges. It frequently appears with verbs like 激发 (to inspire), 高涨 (to run high), 消磨 (to wear down), or 丧失 (to lose). The term carries a positive connotation when present and negative when lacking.

Examples

  1. 01
    教练的演讲激发了队员们的斗志
    Jiào liàn de yǎn jiǎng le duì yuán men de dòu zhì.
    The coach's speech inspired the team members' fighting spirit.
  2. 02
    虽然连续失败,但他从未丧失斗志
    Suī rán lián shī bài, dàn cóng wèi sàng shī dòu zhì.
    Despite consecutive failures, he never lost his will to fight.

Characters

Common collocations

  • 斗志昂扬
    dòu zhì áng yáng
    in high spirits, full of fighting spirit
  • 激发斗志
    dòu zhì
    to inspire fighting spirit
  • 丧失斗志
    sàng shī dòu zhì
    to lose one's fighting spirit
  • 斗志旺盛
    dòu zhì wàng shèng
    vigorous fighting spirit

Antonyms

Origin

斗 originally meant 'to fight' or 'struggle,' while 志 refers to one's will or aspiration. Together they form a compound meaning 'the will to fight' or 'fighting determination,' reflecting traditional Chinese values of perseverance and determination in facing adversity.

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