Meaning
This phrase describes someone who possesses moral courage, self-respect, and refuses to compromise their principles even under pressure. It refers to a person who stands up for what they believe is right, maintains dignity in difficult circumstances, and won't bow to external pressure or temptation.
Usage
Commonly used to praise someone's character and moral fortitude. Often appears in contexts discussing someone who refuses to be bought, intimidated, or humiliated. The opposite quality (没骨气) is considered a significant character flaw in Chinese culture. Frequently used when describing resistance to injustice or refusing to submit to unfair treatment.
Examples
- 01他宁愿饿着也不接受不义之财，真是个有骨气的人。, .He would rather go hungry than accept ill-gotten gains; he's truly a person with integrity.
- 02面对威胁，她依然坚持说出真相，非常有骨气。, , .In the face of threats, she still insisted on telling the truth; she has real backbone.
Characters
Common collocations
- 很有骨气to have great backbone
- 有骨气的人person with integrity
- 做人要有骨气one should have principles in life
Antonyms
Origin
The term literally means 'to have bone spirit.' The metaphor comes from the idea that bones provide structure and strength to the body, so 骨气 represents the inner moral structure and strength of character that keeps a person upright.