礪志（lì zhì）

Pronunciation: lì zhì

Basic Meaning: To sharpen one's determination and willpower

Detailed Explanation:

礪志 is a compound word that consists of the characters "礪" and "志". "礪" means to sharpen or grind, while "志" refers to one's aspirations or determination. Therefore, 礪志 can be understood as the act of sharpening one's determination and willpower, in order to achieve one's goals or ambitions.

Usage Scenarios:

礪志 is often used to describe the process of self-improvement and cultivating one's character. It implies the idea of strengthening one's resolve and determination, especially in the face of challenges or difficulties. This idiom can be used in various contexts, such as education, personal development, or career advancement.

Story Origin:

The origin of the idiom can be traced back to the Book of Rites, an ancient Chinese text that discusses various aspects of social rituals and moral principles. In the book, there is a passage that states, "礪志以立志" (lì zhì yǐ lì zhì), which means "to sharpen one's determination to establish one's aspirations." This passage emphasizes the importance of cultivating one's determination and willpower in order to achieve success.

Structure of the Idiom:

The structure of the idiom is composed of two characters, "礪" and "志", which combine to form the compound word "礪志". The character "礪" is a radical that represents the action of sharpening or grinding, while "志" represents one's aspirations or determination.

Example Sentences:

1. 他每天努力學習，礪志成為一名優秀的科學家。

Translation: He studies hard every day, sharpening his determination to become an excellent scientist.

2. 面對困難，我們要堅持下去，礪志不懈。

Translation: In the face of difficulties, we must persist and sharpen our determination without giving up.

Memory Techniques:

To remember the meaning of 礪志, you can visualize a person sharpening a knife to symbolize the act of sharpening one's determination. This visual image can help you remember that 礪志 means to strengthen your resolve and willpower.

Extended Learning:

To further explore the concept of 礪志, you can read books or articles on personal development, self-improvement, and goal-setting. These resources can provide additional insights and strategies for cultivating determination and achieving success.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children: 我要好好學習，礪志成為一名優秀的運動員。

Translation: I want to study hard and sharpen my determination to become an excellent athlete.

2. Teenagers: 面對高考的壓力，我們要堅持努力，礪志成為一名理想的大學生。

Translation: In the face of the pressure of the college entrance examination, we must persist and sharpen our determination to become ideal college students.

3. Adults: 遇到困難時，我們要堅定信心，礪志不懈，追求事業的成功。

Translation: When encountering difficulties, we must have confidence, sharpen our determination, and pursue success in our careers.