继续
How to Understand
继续 (jìxù) means 'to continue' an action or process. It emphasizes the ongoing nature of an activity, often implying that something was already in progress and is now being carried on.
The character 继 (jì) originally meant 'to inherit' or 'to follow,' while 续 (xù) means 'to connect' or 'to continue.' Together, they form a word that conveys the idea of carrying forward an existing action or state.
继续 is commonly used in daily conversations to show persistence or continuation, such as continuing a task, a conversation, or a journey. It can also be used metaphorically, like continuing a tradition or a relationship. In Chinese culture, the concept of continuity is valued, especially in family, work, and societal contexts.