垂头丧气 en 30 secondes
- Feeling very sad and discouraged.
- Loss of spirit and energy after a setback.
- Often shown by a lowered head and slumped posture.
- Implies significant disappointment or failure.
The Chinese idiom 垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) paints a vivid picture of someone who is feeling down, discouraged, and utterly dispirited. It literally translates to 'hang head, lose spirit'. Imagine someone whose shoulders are slumped, their head bowed, and their usual energy completely drained. This idiom is used to describe a state of profound disappointment, dejection, or defeat, often after experiencing a setback, failure, or harsh criticism. It's not just a fleeting moment of sadness; it implies a more sustained feeling of low spirits and a loss of motivation or enthusiasm.
- Literal Meaning
- To hang one's head and lose one's spirit.
- Figurative Meaning
- Dejected, crestfallen, dispirited, disheartened, downcast.
You might use 垂头丧气 to describe a student who received failing grades on a crucial exam, a sports team that lost a championship game, or an employee who was passed over for a promotion they desperately wanted. It captures the essence of feeling utterly defeated and losing hope. The phrase emphasizes the outward appearance of dejection—the lowered head and the general air of weariness and sadness.
After failing the interview for the third time, he walked out of the building looking 垂头丧气.
Consider the context of a child who has been scolded for misbehaving; they might stand in the corner, head down, looking utterly 垂头丧气. It's a powerful descriptor for a visible manifestation of inner sadness and disappointment. The idiom is widely understood and frequently used in everyday conversation and literature to convey this specific emotional and physical state of being downcast.
- Emotional State
- Characterized by a lack of energy, enthusiasm, and hope.
- Physical Manifestation
- Often depicted by a lowered head, slumped shoulders, and a general look of weariness.
- Triggering Events
- Commonly associated with failures, setbacks, disappointments, or criticism.
The phrase encapsulates a feeling of being defeated not just externally, but internally as well. It's the kind of feeling that makes one want to withdraw and be left alone. When someone is described as 垂头丧气, it suggests that their spirit has been significantly dampened, and they are unlikely to be cheerful or energetic in that moment. It’s a strong indicator of emotional distress and a loss of one's usual vigor.
Despite the initial excitement, the project's failure left the entire team feeling 垂头丧气.
In essence, 垂头丧气 is a powerful and descriptive idiom that captures the feeling of being thoroughly dejected and disheartened, often outwardly visible through a person's posture and expression. It’s a common expression used to describe the aftermath of significant disappointment or failure.
Using 垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) effectively in sentences requires understanding the context of disappointment and dejection it signifies. This idiom is typically used as an adjective or adverbial phrase to describe a person's state of being or their manner after experiencing a setback. It's often placed after the subject or after a verb describing their action or state.
- As an Adjective Phrase
- Describing a noun (person).
- As an Adverbial Phrase
- Describing a verb (action or state).
Here are various ways to incorporate 垂头丧气 into your sentences, along with explanations:
The young athlete, after losing the final match, walked off the field looking utterly 垂头丧气.
Explanation: Here, 垂头丧气 describes the athlete's appearance and demeanor after their loss. It emphasizes their dejected state.
He had been rejected by several universities, and his normally cheerful face was now 垂头丧气.
Explanation: This sentence uses 垂头丧气 to describe the change in his facial expression due to disappointment.
- Using with Verbs
- Often follows verbs like 'be' (是), 'look' (显得), 'walk' (走), 'sit' (坐), etc.
When he heard the bad news, he immediately became 垂头丧气.
Explanation: This shows a direct cause-and-effect: the bad news caused him to become dejected.
She sat in the corner, looking 垂头丧气 after failing her driving test.
Explanation: This describes her posture and mood while sitting, emphasizing her dejection.
The team's morale was low, with everyone looking 垂头丧气 after the unexpected loss.
Explanation: This sentence applies the idiom to a group, describing the collective mood.
Despite the setbacks, the determined leader refused to appear 垂头丧气 in front of his employees.
Explanation: This highlights a contrast – the leader's effort to *not* appear dejected, implying that it's a state one can try to conceal or overcome.
- Describing a General State
- Can be used to describe someone's overall mood or appearance over a period.
For weeks after the business failed, he remained 垂头丧气.
Explanation: This indicates a prolonged period of dejection.
The constant criticism left the young artist feeling 垂头丧气 and uninspired.
Explanation: This shows how persistent negative input can lead to dejection.
He tried to cheer her up, but she remained 垂头丧气, unwilling to talk.
Explanation: This illustrates the lack of responsiveness often associated with being deeply dejected.
The entire town was 垂头丧气 after the devastating flood.
Explanation: This shows the idiom being used to describe the collective mood of a community facing a tragedy.
The idiom 垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) is a common and widely understood expression in Mandarin Chinese, frequently encountered in various aspects of daily life and media. Its evocative imagery makes it a popular choice for describing feelings of dejection and discouragement.
- Everyday Conversations
- Friends might console each other using this phrase, or describe someone else's low spirits.
- Media and News
- Journalists and commentators use it to describe the mood of individuals or groups after significant events.
- Literature and Storytelling
- Authors use it to paint a picture of characters' emotional states.
- Workplace Scenarios
- Describing team morale after a project failure or a disappointing quarter.
- Sports Commentary
- Referring to athletes or teams after a loss.
You'll often hear 垂头丧气 in informal settings when people are discussing personal setbacks or observed disappointment. For instance, a parent might tell their child, “别垂头丧气了，下次还有机会。” (Don't be dejected, there will be another chance next time.) This is a very common encouragement.
In a news report about a company's poor financial results, the anchor might say, “投资者们对公司的前景感到垂头丧气。” (Investors felt dejected about the company's prospects.)
In television dramas or movies, characters who have suffered a significant loss or failure are often depicted as 垂头丧气. This visual representation reinforces the meaning of the idiom for viewers.
A teacher might observe a student who didn't perform well on an exam and comment, “他看起来很垂头丧气，需要一些鼓励。” (He looks very dejected and needs some encouragement.)
The idiom is also prevalent in written Chinese, from casual social media posts to more formal essays. Authors use it to add depth to their descriptions of characters' emotional journeys.
- Common Scenarios
- Job interviews gone wrong, academic failures, relationship breakups, personal disappointments.
In the realm of online forums and discussions, users frequently employ 垂头丧气 to express their own or others' feelings of being down after facing challenges. It's a concise and effective way to communicate a specific emotional state.
A sports fan might lament, “Our team played terribly and ended up losing. The players looked 垂头丧气 on the way back to the locker room.”
Even in advertisements or public service announcements aiming to motivate people, you might hear or read about overcoming feelings of 垂头丧气.
When describing a character who has lost a competition, a story might say, “比赛结束后，他垂头丧气地坐在椅子上。” (After the competition, he sat on the chair, dejected.)
In summary, 垂头丧气 is a staple idiom in Chinese, appearing in virtually any context where disappointment, discouragement, or dejection needs to be expressed, from casual chats to formal reporting and creative writing.
When learning and using the idiom 垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì), English speakers might make a few common mistakes that can lead to misunderstanding or awkward phrasing. It's important to grasp the nuances of its meaning and usage to avoid these pitfalls.
- Mistake 1: Confusing it with general sadness or unhappiness.
- Explanation: While 垂头丧气 involves sadness, it specifically implies dejection, discouragement, or a loss of spirit due to a setback, failure, or disappointment. It's not just feeling sad about something trivial or a general mood of melancholy.
- Mistake 2: Using it in situations of excitement or happiness.
- Explanation: This is the opposite of the previous mistake. 垂头丧气 is inherently negative. You wouldn't use it to describe someone feeling down because they are overwhelmed with joy or excitement, even if their posture might momentarily change.
- Mistake 3: Overusing it or using it in situations where a simpler word would suffice.
- Explanation: Like any idiom, overuse can diminish its impact. For mild disappointment, simpler words like 'unhappy' (不开心) or 'disappointed' (失望) might be more appropriate. 垂头丧气 carries a stronger connotation of being thoroughly dejected.
- Mistake 4: Incorrect grammatical placement.
- Explanation: While it functions similarly to an adjective or adverbial phrase, ensure it's placed logically in the sentence, often following a subject or verb, to describe a state or manner.
- Mistake 5: Literal translation of the components.
- Explanation: While 'hang head, lose spirit' provides the literal meaning, trying to construct sentences that directly mirror this word-for-word can sound unnatural in English. The idiomatic meaning is key.
Let's look at some examples of incorrect usage and how to correct them:
Incorrect: He was 垂头丧气 because he won the lottery.
Correct: He was overjoyed because he won the lottery.
Reason: Winning the lottery is a cause for happiness, not dejection.
Incorrect: The party was so much fun, everyone was 垂头丧气.
Correct: The party was so much fun, everyone was cheerful.
Reason: A fun party leads to happiness, not dejection.
Incorrect: I'm a little sad today. I feel 垂头丧气.
Correct: I'm a little sad today. I feel a bit down.
Reason: For mild sadness, 垂头丧气 is too strong. A simpler term is better.
Incorrect: He was 垂头丧气 about the weather.
Correct: He was unhappy about the weather.
Reason: Weather typically causes mild annoyance or disappointment, not the profound dejection implied by 垂头丧气.
Incorrect: The dog looked 垂头丧气 after chasing the cat.
Correct: The dog looked tired after chasing the cat.
Reason: A dog chasing a cat is usually an energetic activity, not one leading to dejection. It might be tired, but not necessarily spiritless unless it failed spectacularly.
By being mindful of these common errors, learners can ensure they use 垂头丧气 correctly and effectively to convey the intended meaning of dejection and discouragement.
While 垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) is a powerful idiom for dejection, Mandarin Chinese offers several other words and phrases that express similar sentiments, ranging in nuance and intensity. Understanding these alternatives can help you choose the most precise word for your context.
- Direct Synonyms (Similar Intensity)
- 灰心 (huī xīn): Literally 'ash heart', meaning discouraged or disheartened. It's very close to 垂头丧气 but perhaps slightly less visual in its implication of posture.
- Related Concepts (Slightly Different Nuances)
- 沮丧 (jǔ sàng): Depressed, dejected, dispirited. This is a more general term for feeling down.
- Less Intense Alternatives
- 失望 (shī wàng): Disappointed. This focuses on the feeling of unmet expectations.
- More Intense or Specific Terms
- 绝望 (jué wàng): Despair, hopeless. This signifies a much deeper level of dejection, where all hope is lost.
Let's compare 垂头丧气 with some of these alternatives:
垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) vs. 灰心 (huī xīn):
垂头丧气 often implies a visible display of dejection (hanging head), while 灰心 focuses more on the internal feeling of discouragement. However, they are often used interchangeably when describing someone who has lost hope after a failure.
Example with 垂头丧气: After the repeated rejections, he walked around looking 垂头丧气.
Example with 灰心: I'm so 灰心 about finding a job.
垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) vs. 沮丧 (jǔ sàng):
沮丧 is a broader term for feeling depressed or dispirited. 垂头丧气 is a specific manifestation of this feeling, often including the physical aspect of a lowered head.
Example with 垂头丧气: The team was 垂头丧气 after their surprising loss.
Example with 沮丧: The news of the economic downturn made many people feel 沮丧.
垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) vs. 失望 (shī wàng):
失望 focuses on the unmet expectations. You can be disappointed without being completely dejected, and one can feel 垂头丧气 as a result of multiple disappointments.
Example with 垂头丧气: He looked 垂头丧气 after failing the exam.
Example with 失望: I was very 失望 when the concert was cancelled.
垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) vs. 绝望 (jué wàng):
绝望 is a much stronger and more severe state than 垂头丧气. It implies a complete loss of hope, often leading to extreme actions or inaction.
Example with 垂头丧气: The team was 垂头丧气 after losing the first game.
Example with 绝望: Facing insurmountable debt, he fell into 绝望.
- Other Related Expressions
- 无精打采 (wú jīng dǎ cǎi): Listless, lacking energy. This is similar to 垂头丧气 in that it describes a lack of spirit, but it doesn't necessarily imply dejection from a specific failure.
- 没精打采 (méi jīng dǎ cǎi): Also means listless, lacking spirit. Very similar to 无精打采.
By understanding these distinctions, you can more accurately express the nuances of dejection and discouragement in your Chinese communication.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The imagery of 'hanging one's head' is a universal sign of shame, sadness, or defeat across many cultures. This makes 垂头丧气 an easily understandable idiom even for those unfamiliar with its literal Chinese components. The second part, '丧气' (lose spirit), further emphasizes the internal emotional state of discouragement.
Guide de prononciation
- Mispronouncing the tones, especially the dipping tone on 'sàng' and the rising tones on 'chuí' and 'qì'.
- Confusing the 'ch' sound with 'sh' or 'x'.
- Not fully articulating the 'tóu' sound, especially the 'ou' diphthong.
Niveau de difficulté
Recognizing 垂头丧气 in written text is generally straightforward, as its meaning is directly related to the context of disappointment or failure. Learners at the B2 level should be able to understand its usage in most contexts.
Accurately using 垂头丧气 in writing requires a good grasp of its nuances and appropriate contexts. Learners might overuse it or use it in situations where a simpler term would be better. Aiming for precise usage is key.
Using 垂头丧气 in spoken conversation is common. The challenge lies in delivering it with the right intonation and in a context that feels natural, reflecting the appropriate level of dejection.
Understanding 垂头丧气 when spoken depends on clear pronunciation and context. Native speakers often use it in everyday situations, making it relatively easy to pick up once familiar with its meaning.
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Usage of Adverbial Particle '地' (de)
他垂头丧气地走进了房间。(He walked into the room dejectedly.) '地' connects the adjective/idiom '垂头丧气' to the verb '走' (to walk), indicating the manner of the action.
Using '感到' (gǎndào - to feel) or '显得' (xiǎnde - to appear)
他感到很垂头丧气。(He feels very dejected.) 老师显得很垂头丧气。(The teacher appears very dejected.) These verbs are often used to describe emotional states.
Using Negative Forms
他从不垂头丧气。(He never gets dejected.) This uses '从不' (never) to express the opposite of the idiom's meaning, highlighting resilience.
Idiom as Predicate Complement
这次失败使他垂头丧气。(This failure made him dejected.) Here, the idiom functions as a complement describing the state of the object '他' after the action of the verb '使' (to make).
Describing a State after an Event
面试后，他一副垂头丧气的样子。(After the interview, he looked dejected.) '一副...的样子' (a look of...) is a common structure to describe someone's appearance or state.
Exemples par niveau
他考试没考好，很垂头丧气。
He didn't do well on the test and was very dejected.
垂头丧气 used as an adjective describing his state.
下雨了，小猫垂头丧气地躲在屋檐下。
It started raining, and the kitten hid under the eaves looking dejected.
垂头丧气 used adverbially to describe how the kitten hid.
输了比赛，队员们都垂头丧气。
The team lost the game, and the players were all dejected.
垂头丧气 describes the state of the players.
他的玩具坏了，垂头丧气地坐在那里。
His toy broke, and he sat there looking dejected.
垂头丧气 describes his manner of sitting.
我今天很累，感觉有点垂头丧气。
I'm very tired today and feel a bit dejected.
垂头丧气 used to describe a feeling of low spirits.
妈妈批评了他，他垂头丧气地去写作业。
Mom scolded him, and he went to do his homework dejectedly.
垂头丧气 describes the manner in which he went to do homework.
花儿谢了，看起来垂头丧气。
The flowers have withered and look dejected.
垂头丧气 used metaphorically for inanimate objects showing signs of decline.
他找不到他的书，垂头丧气地在房间里找。
He couldn't find his book, so he searched the room dejectedly.
垂头丧气 describes the manner of searching.
面试失败后，他垂头丧气地走出了公司大楼。
After failing the interview, he walked out of the company building looking dejected.
垂头丧气 describes his appearance after a failure.
得知好消息后，她一扫之前的垂头丧气。
After hearing the good news, she immediately got rid of her previous dejection.
垂头丧气 refers to a previous state of dejection that is now overcome.
他一直很努力，但这次比赛他又一次垂头丧气了。
He worked very hard, but he was dejected again after this competition.
垂头丧气 used to describe repeated disappointment.
看到孩子们垂头丧气的样子，老师感到很心疼。
Seeing the children looking dejected, the teacher felt very distressed.
垂头丧气 describes the children's appearance, evoking empathy.
别垂头丧气了，下次我们一起努力。
Don't be dejected, we will work hard together next time.
Used in an imperative to encourage someone not to be dejected.
他因为被批评而垂头丧气地待在房间里。
He stayed in his room dejectedly because he was criticized.
垂头丧气 describes his mood and behavior in the room.
项目失败后，整个团队都垂头丧气。
After the project failed, the entire team was dejected.
垂头丧气 describes the collective mood of the team.
他垂头丧气地走在街上，没有人注意到他。
He walked dejectedly on the street, and no one noticed him.
垂头丧气 describes his manner of walking.
经过长时间的努力，项目终于获得了成功，他再也没有垂头丧气。
After a long period of effort, the project finally succeeded, and he was no longer dejected.
垂头丧气 refers to a state that has been overcome by success.
听到这个令人失望的消息，她整个人都垂头丧气了。
Upon hearing this disappointing news, she became completely dejected.
垂头丧气 describes the overall impact of the news on her.
虽然屡遭挫折，他依然保持着乐观，从不垂头丧气。
Although he encountered setbacks repeatedly, he remained optimistic and never became dejected.
Used in the negative to emphasize resilience.
他垂头丧气地坐在角落里，不愿意和任何人交流。
He sat dejectedly in the corner, unwilling to communicate with anyone.
垂头丧气 describes his posture and his unwillingness to interact.
这次考试的难度很大，很多学生都垂头丧气地走出考场。
The exam was very difficult, and many students walked out of the examination hall dejectedly.
垂头丧气 describes the collective mood of students after a difficult test.
父母的鼓励让他从垂头丧气的状态中走了出来。
His parents' encouragement helped him emerge from his dejected state.
垂头丧气 describes the state from which the person recovered.
看着孩子们垂头丧气的样子，老师决定给他们讲个笑话。
Seeing the children looking dejected, the teacher decided to tell them a joke.
垂头丧气 describes the children's mood, prompting the teacher's action.
他垂头丧气地承认了自己的错误。
He dejectedly admitted his mistake.
垂头丧气 describes the manner in which he admitted his mistake.
尽管遭遇了一连串的打击，他依旧没有表现出丝毫的垂头丧气。
Despite suffering a series of blows, he still did not show the slightest dejection.
垂头丧气 used to emphasize resilience in the face of severe challenges.
看到自己辛苦付出的努力付诸东流，他感到无比的垂头丧气。
Seeing his hard work go to waste, he felt immensely dejected.
垂头丧气 expresses a profound sense of disappointment due to wasted effort.
那场失利让球队上下都陷入了垂头丧气的境地。
That defeat plunged the entire team into a state of dejection.
垂头丧气 used to describe the collective atmosphere of a team after a loss.
他垂头丧气地走在雨中，仿佛整个世界的重量都压在了他的肩上。
He walked dejectedly in the rain, as if the weight of the entire world was pressing down on his shoulders.
垂头丧气 combined with imagery to express deep despair.
老师试图用幽默来驱散学生们的垂头丧气，但效果甚微。
The teacher tried to dispel the students' dejection with humor, but with little effect.
垂头丧气 describes the students' persistent mood that humor struggles to lift.
经济形势的严峻让许多人感到垂头丧气，对未来充满了忧虑。
The grim economic situation made many people feel dejected and filled with anxiety about the future.
垂头丧气 used to describe the widespread feeling caused by economic conditions.
他垂头丧气地坐在沙发上，望着窗外阴沉的天空。
He sat dejectedly on the sofa, gazing at the gloomy sky outside the window.
垂头丧气 describes his posture and mood, complemented by the atmosphere.
在经历了多次失败后，他几乎要垂头丧气了，但最终还是选择了坚持。
After experiencing multiple failures, he was almost dejected, but ultimately chose to persevere.
垂头丧气 used to describe a state that was almost reached but overcome.
面对如此巨大的压力和接踵而至的失败，他展现出了超乎寻常的韧性，丝毫未显垂头丧气。
Facing such immense pressure and consecutive failures, he displayed extraordinary resilience, showing not the slightest hint of dejection.
垂头丧气 is used to highlight the absence of dejection in the face of extreme adversity.
他垂头丧气地承认了自己在这场复杂博弈中的失误，语气中充满了懊悔。
He dejectedly admitted his mistake in this complex game, his tone filled with regret.
垂头丧气 describes the manner of admission, emphasizing the depth of regret.
那次惨痛的教训让整个团队都陷入了长期的垂头丧气之中，士气低落到了极点。
That painful lesson plunged the entire team into a long period of dejection, with morale hitting rock bottom.
垂头丧气 used to describe a prolonged state of collective dejection and low morale.
他垂头丧气地坐在窗前，任由思绪在失败的阴影中漫无目的地游荡。
He sat dejectedly by the window, letting his thoughts wander aimlessly in the shadow of failure.
垂头丧气 sets the mood for introspection on failure.
尽管外界一片唱衰，他依然坚守岗位，从不让自己显得垂头丧气。
Despite widespread pessimism, he remained steadfast in his post, never allowing himself to appear dejected.
垂头丧气 used to describe an outward appearance that the subject actively avoids.
投资者们对公司前景的担忧，使得整个市场弥漫着一股垂头丧气的氛围。
Investors' concerns about the company's prospects permeated the entire market with an atmosphere of dejection.
垂头丧气 describes the pervasive mood in a market context.
他垂头丧气地向家人坦白了自己面临的困境，希望能得到他们的支持。
He dejectedly confessed his predicament to his family, hoping for their support.
垂头丧气 describes the emotional state during a confession of hardship.
即使在最艰难的时刻，他也从未被那股垂头丧气所吞噬。
Even in the most difficult times, he was never consumed by that dejection.
垂头丧气 represents a negative force that the subject resists.
面对接踵而至的政治动荡和经济危机，国家似乎陷入了集体性的垂头丧气，弥漫着一种无力感。
Facing consecutive political turmoil and economic crises, the nation seemed to have fallen into collective dejection, permeated by a sense of powerlessness.
垂头丧气 used to describe a profound, collective national mood.
他垂头丧气地承认了自己在这场精心策划的阴谋中的角色，语气中罕见地流露出悔恨。
He dejectedly admitted his role in this meticulously planned conspiracy, his tone revealing a rare trace of remorse.
垂头丧气 enhances the gravity of the confession and the associated emotions.
那场决定性的失败，不仅摧毁了球队的冠军梦想，更让整个群体陷入了长期的垂头丧气，士气一蹶不振。
That decisive defeat not only shattered the team's championship dream but also plunged the entire group into prolonged dejection, with morale irrecoverably low.
垂头丧气 describes a deep, lasting impact on group morale.
他垂头丧气地坐在书房，任由思绪沉溺在过往辉煌的幻灭与现实残酷的交织之中。
He sat dejectedly in his study, letting his thoughts drown in the interweaving of the disillusionment of past glories and the harshness of reality.
垂头丧气 sets a somber tone for profound existential reflection.
尽管外部世界充斥着悲观论调，这位开拓者依然固守信念，从不让自己在公众面前显露出丝毫的垂头丧气。
Despite the external world being filled with pessimistic pronouncements, this pioneer remained steadfast in his beliefs, never allowing the slightest hint of dejection to show in public.
垂头丧气 is used to highlight the subject's deliberate suppression of dejection in a public persona.
分析师们对公司未来盈利能力的普遍担忧，使得整个金融市场弥漫着一种难以驱散的垂头丧气。
Analysts' widespread concerns about the company's future profitability caused the entire financial market to be permeated with an unshakeable atmosphere of dejection.
垂头丧气 describes a deep-seated, pervasive mood within a complex system like the financial market.
他垂头丧气地向至亲坦白了自己因一系列错误决策而陷入的绝境，期盼能获得一丝救赎。
He dejectedly confessed to his closest kin the dire straits he had fallen into due to a series of wrong decisions, hoping for a sliver of redemption.
垂头丧气 characterizes the emotional state during a confession of severe personal failure.
即便是在最黑暗的时刻，他的精神也未曾被那股无形的垂头丧气所彻底吞噬，反而从中汲取了力量。
Even in the darkest of moments, his spirit was never completely consumed by that intangible dejection; instead, he drew strength from it.
垂头丧气 represents a powerful negative force that the subject not only resists but also uses as a catalyst for growth.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— Don't be dejected anymore. This is often used to encourage someone who is feeling down.
别垂头丧气了，下次还有机会。
— Looking dejected or crestfallen. This describes someone's appearance when they are feeling very discouraged.
他考试没考好，一副垂头丧气的样子。
— To walk in a dejected manner. This describes the physical action of walking with slumped shoulders and a lowered head.
他垂头丧气地走出了教室。
— To feel dejected or dispirited. This expresses the internal emotional state.
听到这个消息，我感到非常垂头丧气。
— To make someone dejected or disheartened. This indicates something that causes a loss of spirit.
连续的失败使他垂头丧气。
— To recover from a state of dejection. This implies regaining one's spirit after being down.
朋友的安慰让他从垂头丧气中恢复了过来。
— Not to be dejected or discouraged. This highlights resilience and a refusal to give up.
即使遇到困难，他也不垂头丧气。
— To admit something dejectedly. This describes admitting a mistake or defeat with a lack of spirit.
他垂头丧气地承认了自己的错误。
— To sit in a dejected manner. This describes a posture of sadness and discouragement.
他垂头丧气地坐在沙发上，一言不发。
— The entire team is dejected. This describes a collective feeling of low spirits within a group.
输掉比赛后，整个团队都垂头丧气。
Souvent confondu avec
Both mean discouraged, but 垂头丧气 often implies a visible, physical manifestation of dejection (like a lowered head), whereas 灰心 focuses more on the internal feeling of losing hope.
失望 means disappointed, which is often a cause for 垂头丧气, but 垂头丧气 describes a more profound state of dejection and loss of spirit than simple disappointment.
This means listless or lacking energy. While someone who is 垂头丧气 might also be 无精打采, the latter doesn't necessarily imply dejection from a specific failure; it can be due to tiredness or illness.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To hang one's head and lose one's spirit; dejected, crestfallen, dispirited.
After failing the exam, he felt utterly 垂头丧气.
General— To have a worried or sad expression; to look glum.
He always had a 愁眉苦脸 look, even when things were going well.
General— Listless, lacking energy or spirit; lethargic.
The rainy weather made everyone feel 无精打采.
General— Discouraged and disheartened; demoralized. This is a very close synonym to 垂头丧气.
After many rejections, he became 灰心丧气.
General— To sigh repeatedly; to be full of complaints and lamentations.
He spent the whole day 唉声叹气 about his problems.
General— To be dejected and disheartened; to feel sorrowful and dispirited.
Hearing the sad news, she became 黯然神伤.
Literary/Formal— To be discouraged and disheartened; to lose all hope.
After his business failed, he felt 心灰意冷.
General— To hang one's head and refuse to speak; to be sullen and silent.
He sat there 垂头不语, refusing to explain himself.
General— To be weak and lacking energy; to speak or act feebly.
After the illness, he spoke in a 有气无力 voice.
General— Exhausted and worn out; completely drained of energy.
The long journey left them 精疲力尽.
GeneralFacile à confondre
Both relate to negative emotions after setbacks.
垂头丧气 emphasizes the physical appearance of dejection (hanging head, slumped posture) and a loss of spirit. 灰心 focuses more on the internal feeling of discouragement and loss of hope. You can be 灰心 without necessarily looking 垂头丧气, and vice versa, though they often occur together.
比赛输了，他垂头丧气地坐在场边。(He sat on the sidelines dejectedly after losing the game.) 我对找工作感到灰心。(I feel discouraged about finding a job.)
Both describe a state of being down or dispirited.
沮丧 is a more general term for being depressed or dispirited. 垂头丧气 is more specific, often implying a visible lack of spirit and a lowered posture due to a particular disappointment or failure. 沮丧 can be a broader feeling of melancholy.
他因为考试没通过而感到沮丧。(He felt dejected because he failed the exam.) 他垂头丧气地走出了考场。(He walked out of the exam hall dejectedly.)
Disappointment is a common precursor to feeling dejected.
失望 specifically refers to the feeling when expectations are not met. 垂头丧气 is the resulting state of dejection and loss of spirit that can arise from disappointment. You can be disappointed without being completely 垂头丧气, and 垂头丧气 implies a deeper emotional impact.
听到这个消息，我感到非常失望。(Hearing this news, I felt very disappointed.) 连续失败让他垂头丧气。(Continuous failures made him dejected.)
Both describe a lack of energy and spirit.
无精打采 means listless or lacking energy, often due to tiredness, illness, or general low mood. 垂头丧气 specifically implies dejection and discouragement due to a particular failure or disappointment, often with a visible 'hanging head' posture. Someone who is 垂头丧气 is usually also 无精打采, but the reverse is not always true.
他看起来无精打采的，可能是没睡好。(He looks listless, maybe he didn't sleep well.) 输掉比赛后，他垂头丧气地坐在那里。(After losing the game, he sat there dejectedly.)
Both describe a negative facial expression.
愁眉苦脸 describes a worried or sad facial expression, focusing on the outward appearance of distress. 垂头丧气 describes a more complete state of dejection, encompassing both the physical posture (lowered head) and the loss of spirit. One can have a 愁眉苦脸 expression without necessarily being completely 垂头丧气.
他总是愁眉苦脸的，不知道有什么烦心事。(He always has a worried expression, I don't know what's bothering him.) 比赛失败后，他垂头丧气地走下了赛场。(After losing the game, he walked off the field dejectedly.)
Structures de phrases
Subject + 垂头丧气
他垂头丧气。
Subject + 垂头丧气 + 地 + Verb
他垂头丧气地走。
Subject + 感到/显得 + 垂头丧气
她感到垂头丧气。
Cause + 使/让 + Subject + 垂头丧气
失败使他垂头丧气。
Subject + 变得 + 垂头丧气
他变得垂头丧气。
Subject + 从 + 垂头丧气 + 中 + 恢复
他从垂头丧气中恢复了。
Subject + 从不/很少 + 垂头丧气
他从不垂头丧气。
Subject + 摆出/露出 + 一副垂头丧气的样子
他摆出一副垂头丧气的样子。
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
High
-
Using 垂头丧气 for mild sadness or tiredness.
→
For mild sadness, use '难过' (nán guò) or '不开心' (bù kāixīn). For tiredness, use '累' (lèi) or '疲倦' (pí juàn).
垂头丧气 implies a significant loss of spirit due to disappointment or failure, not just general low mood or fatigue.
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Confusing the tones, especially 'sàng' (11) and 'qì' (55).
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Practice the tones: chuí (55) tóu (55) sàng (11) qì (55). Listen to native speakers and use pronunciation tools.
Incorrect tones can change the meaning or make the word unintelligible. The dipping tone on 'sàng' is particularly important.
-
Overusing the idiom, making it sound repetitive or unnatural.
→
Use synonyms like 灰心, 沮丧, or 失望 when appropriate, or rephrase the sentence to avoid repetition.
Like any idiom, overuse diminishes its impact. Choose the most fitting word for the specific context.
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Incorrectly placing 垂头丧气 in a sentence, e.g., before the subject without proper structure.
→
Use common patterns like 'Subject + 垂头丧气' or 'Subject + Verb + 垂头丧气地'. For example: '他垂头丧气' or '他垂头丧气地走'.
Understanding its grammatical function as an adjective or adverbial phrase is crucial for correct placement.
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Applying it literally to situations where the visual 'hanging head' doesn't fit.
→
Focus on the underlying meaning of profound dejection and loss of spirit, rather than strictly the physical posture, especially when used metaphorically.
While the visual is strong, the core meaning is the emotional state of being utterly disheartened.
Astuces
Master the Tones
The tones are crucial for correct pronunciation. Practice 'chuí' (55), 'tóu' (55), 'sàng' (11), and 'qì' (55) repeatedly. Listening to native speakers is highly recommended.
Compare with Synonyms
Understand the subtle differences between 垂头丧气, 灰心, and 沮丧. Knowing these distinctions will allow for more precise expression of emotions.
Visualize the Meaning
Picture someone with their head hanging low and shoulders slumped. This strong visual association with 'hang head, lose spirit' will help you recall the idiom and its meaning.
Sentence Structure
Learn common sentence patterns like 'Subject + 垂头丧气' or 'Subject + Verb + 垂头丧气地'. Practice constructing your own sentences to solidify usage.
Cultural Nuance
Recognize that 垂头丧气 describes a state that is often temporary and can be overcome with support. It's a common human experience acknowledged in Chinese culture.
Active Recall
Try to use 垂头丧气 in your own speaking and writing. The more you actively use it, the more natural it will become.
Observe in Media
Pay attention to how 垂头丧气 is used in Chinese dramas, movies, and literature. This will provide real-world context and examples.
Opposites Aid Memory
Learning antonyms like 精神抖擞 (full of spirit) can reinforce the meaning of 垂头丧气 by highlighting what it is not.
Break Down the Characters
Understanding the individual meanings of '垂头' (hang head) and '丧气' (lose spirit) provides a strong foundation for remembering the idiom's overall meaning.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine a student who just failed a very important exam. They walk out of the classroom with their head hanging low (垂头), feeling like they've lost all their energy and hope (丧气). Picture this student's slumped shoulders and sad face to remember 垂头丧气.
Association visuelle
Visualize a wilting flower. Its head droops down (垂头), and it looks lifeless and sad (丧气). This image of a wilting flower perfectly captures the essence of 垂头丧气.
Word Web
Défi
Try to describe a character in a book or movie who experienced a major setback using the idiom 垂头丧气. Write a short paragraph about their feelings and how their demeanor changed.
Origine du mot
The idiom 垂头丧气 originates from classical Chinese literature and everyday observations of human behavior. It is a descriptive phrase that vividly captures the physical and emotional state of someone who is deeply disappointed or has suffered a significant setback. The two parts of the idiom, '垂头' (chuí tóu - hang head) and '丧气' (sàng qì - lose spirit), combine to create a powerful image.
Sens originel : To hang one's head and lose one's spirit.
Sino-TibetanContexte culturel
While 垂头丧气 describes a negative emotional state, it is generally not considered offensive. It's a descriptive term used to acknowledge and empathize with someone's disappointment. However, constantly using it to label someone might be insensitive if they are trying to overcome their feelings.
In English, similar concepts are conveyed by 'dejected,' 'crestfallen,' 'dispirited,' 'downcast,' 'glum,' or 'feeling low.' The visual aspect of a lowered head is also present in phrases like 'hanging one's head in shame' or 'with head bowed.'
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Academic Failure
- 考试失败后，他垂头丧气。
- 看到成绩单，我感到垂头丧气。
- 这次的学术报告不理想，让他有些垂头丧气。
Sports Losses
- 球队输了比赛，队员们都垂头丧气。
- 他因为比赛失利而垂头丧气。
- 这场比赛让整个城市都垂头丧气。
Job Hunting Setbacks
- 面试失败后，他垂头丧气地回家了。
- 连续被拒绝，他感到很垂头丧气。
- 找工作这么久，我快要垂头丧气了。
Personal Disappointments
- 得知这个消息，她垂头丧气。
- 因为计划被打乱，他垂头丧气。
- 朋友的背叛让他垂头丧气。
General Discouragement
- 不要垂头丧气，继续努力。
- 他看起来总是垂头丧气的。
- 天气不好，让人感到垂头丧气。
Amorces de conversation
"Have you ever felt 垂头丧气 after a major setback?"
"Can you think of a character from a movie or book who was often 垂头丧气?"
"What's the best way to cheer someone up when they are feeling 垂头丧气?"
"How does the idiom 垂头丧气 describe a person's posture and mood?"
"When might someone feel 垂头丧气 in a professional setting?"
Sujets d'écriture
Describe a time you felt 垂头丧气. What happened, and how did you eventually feel better?
Imagine a friend is feeling 垂头丧气. Write a letter to them offering encouragement and support.
Reflect on the phrase 垂头丧气. What does it mean to 'lose spirit' to you?
Write a short story about a character who overcomes a period of feeling 垂头丧气. What helps them to regain their spirit?
How can one maintain resilience and avoid feeling 垂头丧气 during difficult times?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsThe literal translation of 垂头丧气 is 'hang head, lose spirit.' '垂头' (chuí tóu) means to hang one's head, and '丧气' (sàng qì) means to lose spirit or be dejected.
No, 垂头丧气 implies a more significant level of dejection, discouragement, or disappointment, usually resulting from a failure or a major setback. For mild sadness, simpler words like 'sad' (难过) or 'unhappy' (不开心) are more appropriate.
Yes, it can be used metaphorically. For example, wilted flowers might be described as 垂头丧气 because their posture resembles that of a dejected person. However, its primary use is for people or groups of people.
While both relate to discouragement, 垂头丧气 often emphasizes the visible, physical manifestation of dejection (like a lowered head and slumped posture) and a loss of spirit. 灰心 focuses more on the internal feeling of losing hope or being disheartened. They are often used interchangeably, but 垂头丧气 has a stronger visual component.
You can use it after a subject to describe their state (e.g., 他垂头丧气 - He is dejected) or with a verb to describe the manner of an action (e.g., 他垂头丧气地走 - He walked dejectedly). It can also be used with verbs like '感到' (to feel) or '显得' (to appear).
垂头丧气 is a general-purpose idiom and can be used in both informal and neutral contexts. In very formal writing, alternatives might be preferred, but it is widely understood and accepted in most situations.
Antonyms include 精神抖擞 (jīngshén dǒusǒu - full of spirit), 兴高采烈 (xīng gāo cǎi liè - elated), and 神采飞扬 (shén cǎi fēi yáng - radiant with energy).
Yes, 垂头丧气 can be used to describe the collective mood of a group, such as a sports team after a loss or a community after a disaster.
The pronunciation is chuí tóu sàng qì. Be mindful of the tones: 55 (high flat) for 'chuí' and 'tóu', 11 (low dipping) for 'sàng', and 55 (high rising) for 'qì'.
Use 垂头丧气 when the sadness is a direct result of a significant failure, disappointment, or setback, and it manifests as a loss of spirit and visible dejection, rather than just general unhappiness.
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Summary
垂头丧气 (chuí tóu sàng qì) vividly describes a state of profound dejection and discouragement, often visually represented by a lowered head and slumped posture, typically resulting from failure or significant disappointment.
- Feeling very sad and discouraged.
- Loss of spirit and energy after a setback.
- Often shown by a lowered head and slumped posture.
- Implies significant disappointment or failure.
Context is Key
Always ensure the context clearly implies disappointment, failure, or a significant setback. Using 垂头丧气 for minor inconveniences can sound exaggerated.
Master the Tones
The tones are crucial for correct pronunciation. Practice 'chuí' (55), 'tóu' (55), 'sàng' (11), and 'qì' (55) repeatedly. Listening to native speakers is highly recommended.
Compare with Synonyms
Understand the subtle differences between 垂头丧气, 灰心, and 沮丧. Knowing these distinctions will allow for more precise expression of emotions.
Visualize the Meaning
Picture someone with their head hanging low and shoulders slumped. This strong visual association with 'hang head, lose spirit' will help you recall the idiom and its meaning.
Exemple
比赛输了，队员们都垂头丧气地离开了。
Contenu associé
Ce mot dans d'autres langues
Expressions liées
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有点
A1Un peu; quelque peu. Utilisé avant un adjectif pour exprimer un sentiment légèrement négatif.
一点
A1Un petit peu; une petite quantité de quelque chose.
可恶
A2Détestable ; odieux. Utilisé pour exprimer une forte aversion ou de la colère.
心不在焉
A2Être distrait ou préoccupé; avoir l'esprit ailleurs.
接受地
A2Il a écouté les critiques de manière réceptive.
成就感
B1Le sentiment d'accomplissement que l'on ressent après avoir réussi quelque chose de difficile.
撒娇
A2To act like a spoiled child; to act cute.
上瘾
B1Développer une dépendance à quelque chose, souvent de manière malsaine, rendant difficile l'arrêt.
沉迷
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敬佩
B1Admirer; respecter profondément. Utilisé pour exprimer une grande estime pour le caractère ou les actions de quelqu'un.
