Definitions

fèn (verb) to strive; to exert oneself

Etymology

Simplified form of . Depicts a bird () lifting off in a field (), starting to fly.

About

The character "奋", originating from its traditional form "奮", is constructed from the elements "大", "隹", and "田", depicting a bird spreading its wings above a field to symbolize vigorous upward motion or struggle. This structural etymology initially conveyed the literal act of fluttering or taking flight, which over time shifted toward abstract expressions of diligent effort and aroused enthusiasm. The simplified form "奋" retains the "大" and "田" components while omitting the central "隹", thus streamlining the graphic representation without altering its fundamental association with exertion. Throughout its development, the character's meaning has expanded from purely physical endeavors to include motivated mental and emotional striving, maintaining a consistent core related to energetic application.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Western Zhou (~1000 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

我今天很兴

Wǒ jīntiān hěn xīngfèn.

I am very excited today.

他为了梦想斗。

Tā wèile mèngxiǎng fèndòu.

He strives for his dream.

力跑向终点。

Tā fènlì pǎo xiàng zhōngdiǎn.

He ran towards the finish line with all his strength.

我们共同斗吧。

Wǒmen gòngtóng fèndòu ba.

Let's strive together.

听到好消息后,他很兴

Tīng dào hǎo xiāoxi hòu, tā hěn xīngfèn.

After hearing the good news, he was very excited.

球员在比赛中力拼搏。

Qiúyuán zài bǐsài zhōng fènlì pīnbó.

The players strive hard in the game.

这个消息振人心。

Zhège xiāoxi zhènfèn rénxīn.

This news inspires people.

在困难面前,他始终力前行。

Zài kùnnan miànqián, tā shǐzhōng fènlì qiánxíng.

In the face of difficulties, he always forges ahead with all his strength.