志向 zhìxiàng ambition
ambition; goal; ideal; aspiration
How to remember 志向: 志 intention + 向 towards = ambition.
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How it is used
- One's aspiration or life goal - 他从小志向远大 (tā cóngxiǎo zhìxiàng yuǎndà) he's had lofty ambitions since childhood.
- A settled personal ideal you aim toward, more concrete-directional than 理想 (a broad ideal); often 树立/胸怀志向.
- Positive, somewhat formal; near 抱负 (bàofù, ambition/aspiration).