刻苦
How to Understand
刻苦 means 'diligent' or 'hardworking,' emphasizing consistent effort and perseverance in tasks, especially in academic or professional settings. It conveys a sense of dedication that goes beyond mere effort, often implying a willingness to endure hardship for long-term goals.
The character 刻 (kè) originally meant 'to carve' or 'to engrave,' symbolizing deep and lasting effort. 苦 (kǔ) means 'bitter' or 'hard,' representing difficulty or struggle. Together, they form a word that reflects the idea of working through hardship with persistence.
在中国，刻苦 is highly valued in education and work culture. Students are often encouraged to be刻苦 to achieve success. It's also used to describe people who consistently put in effort without complaint, making it an important virtue in both personal and professional life.