志气 zhìqì ambition
ambition; resolve; backbone; drive; spirit
How to remember 志气: 志 intention + 气 air = ambition.
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How it is used
- Drive, ambition, and self-respecting resolve - 人要有志气 (rén yào yǒu zhìqì) a person should have ambition and backbone.
- Emphasizes the spirited determination not to be looked down on, more character/pride than 志向's goal-orientation.
- Common 有志气 / 长志气 (build up one's spirit); 没志气 = spineless, no drive.