About
The character 挣, derived from its traditional form 掙, is a phono-semantic compound. Its semantic component 扌 (hand) indicates an action performed with the hands, while the phonetic component 争 (to strive) contributes both sound and the sense of struggle. Its core meaning involves forceful physical exertion, using the hands or body to break free, struggle against restraint, or violently throw something off. From this notion of intense effort, the meaning naturally extended to describe working strenuously to earn a living or make money. Thus, 挣 encapsulates both the physical act of breaking loose and the arduous labor required for financial sustenance.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他在努力挣钱。
我每天挣钱很辛苦。
他在水中挣扎求救。
她挣扎着摆脱了噩梦。
那只狗挣脱了锁链。
为了梦想，他拼命挣钱存钱。
尽管身体不适，他仍然挣扎着完成工作。
在现实的压力下，人们不得不挣扎着寻找平衡。