殚精竭虑
How to Understand
殚精竭虑 means to exhaust one’s energy and mental resources, often in pursuit of a goal or to solve a difficult problem. It emphasizes extreme effort and dedication, usually with a sense of sacrifice or deep commitment.
The word is composed of four characters: 殚 (dān), meaning 'to exhaust'; 精 (jīng), meaning 'essence' or 'energy'; 竭 (jié), meaning 'to exhaust completely'; and 虑 (lǜ), meaning 'thought' or 'concern.' Together, they convey the idea of using all one's mental and physical energy in a concentrated effort.
This phrase is commonly used in contexts involving intense focus, such as academic work, creative projects, or high-stakes endeavors. It reflects a cultural value placed on perseverance and dedication, often seen in both personal and professional settings in Chinese society.