When you hear people talk about being independent, especially financially, they might use the phrase 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì). This means to support oneself by one's own labor or to earn one's own living. It's about being able to provide for yourself through your own work and effort. For example, a student who gets a part-time job to pay for their studies is 自食其力. It emphasizes self-reliance and hard work.
When you hear the phrase 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì), think about being independent and self-sufficient. It means you work to support yourself, rather than relying on others for money or resources.
Imagine someone who has their own job and pays their own bills – that person is 自食其力. It's a positive way to describe someone who is hardworking and responsible, taking care of their own needs through their own efforts.
For example, if a young adult moves out of their parents' house and gets a job to support themselves, they are 自食其力. This phrase highlights the idea of earning your own living and being able to stand on your own two feet financially.
When you're learning Chinese at the B2 level, you're moving beyond basic survival phrases and starting to talk about more abstract concepts and life situations. The idiom 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì) is perfect for this stage because it describes a fundamental aspect of adult life: being self-sufficient.
Understanding this idiom helps you discuss independence, work ethic, and personal responsibility. It's often used to commend someone for their hard work or to encourage self-reliance.
You might use it in conversations about career choices, financial independence, or even describing someone who has overcome difficulties to stand on their own two feet. It's a really practical phrase that adds depth to your Chinese communication.
When you hear people talk about being 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì), they're referring to the idea of supporting themselves through their own hard work, rather than relying on others.
It’s a concept that really emphasizes self-reliance and independence.
For instance, someone who moves out and starts paying their own way is 自食其力.
Or, if a community works together to grow their own food and build their homes, they are also embodying 自食其力.
自食其力 30 सेकंड में
- self-reliance
- financial independence
- earning one's living
§ Basic Sentence Structure
Alright, let's get straight to it. 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì) is an idiom, and it's pretty versatile. You'll usually see it used as a verb phrase, often talking about someone's ability or desire to support themselves. It's about being independent and not relying on others for your living.
- How it works
- You can directly use it after a subject, just like a regular verb.
他从小就学会了自食其力。
Tā cóngxiǎo jiù xuéhuì le zì shí qí lì.
(He learned to support himself from a young age.)
我们应该鼓励年轻人自食其力。
Wǒmen yīnggāi gǔlì niánqīngrén zì shí qí lì.
(We should encourage young people to be self-reliant/support themselves.)
§ Using it with adverbs and auxiliary verbs
You can easily combine 自食其力 with adverbs to add nuance, or with auxiliary verbs (like 'can', 'want to', 'should') to express capability, desire, or obligation.
- Common companions
- Adverbs of manner (e.g., 努力 nǔlì - diligently, 独立 dúlì - independently) or auxiliary verbs (e.g., 能 néng - can, 应该 yīnggāi - should, 想 xiǎng - want to).
她努力工作，希望能自食其力。
Tā nǔlì gōngzuò, xīwàng néng zì shí qí lì.
(She works hard, hoping to be able to support herself.)
即使生活再艰难，他也要坚持自食其力。
Jíshǐ shēnghuó zài jiānnán, tā yě yào jiānchí zì shí qí lì.
(Even if life is difficult, he insists on supporting himself.)
§ 自食其力 in more complex sentences
You can embed 自食其力 within longer sentences to describe a situation or a person's characteristic. It often comes up when discussing independence, responsibility, or overcoming hardship.
As part of a longer clause:
他认为每个人都应该学会自食其力，而不是依赖别人。
Tā rènwéi měigèrén dōu yīnggāi xuéhuì zì shí qí lì, ér bùshì yīlài biérén.
(He believes everyone should learn to support themselves, rather than relying on others.)Describing a person's trait:
她是一个非常自食其力的女性。
Tā shì yīgè fēicháng zì shí qí lì de nǚxìng.
(She is a very self-reliant woman.)
§ What not to do
Avoid adding an object after 自食其力. The 'itself' part is already built into the idiom. You wouldn't say '自食其力钱' (zì shí qí lì qián - support oneself money).
错误示范: 她想自食其力自己的生活。
Cuòwù shìfàn: Tā xiǎng zì shí qí lì zìjǐ de shēnghuó.
(Incorrect example: She wants to support herself her own life.)
Instead, you'd say something like:
正确用法: 她想自食其力。
Zhèngquè yòngfǎ: Tā xiǎng zì shí qí lì.
(Correct usage: She wants to support herself.)
Or, if you want to be more specific about 'her own life', you could say:
正确用法: 她想通过自己的努力来过自食其力的生活。
Zhèngquè yòngfǎ: Tā xiǎng tōngguò zìjǐ de nǔlì lái guò zì shí qí lì de shēnghuó.
(Correct usage: She wants to live a self-reliant life through her own efforts.)
Keep practicing these structures, and you'll be using 自食其力 like a native speaker in no time. It's a really useful expression that shows independence and resilience.
§ Where You'll Hear and See 自食其力
You'll encounter 自食其力 in various situations, often when talking about independence, hard work, and self-reliance. It's a common phrase in formal and semi-formal contexts like news, educational settings, and discussions about social issues or personal development.
§ In Work and Career Discussions
When people talk about careers or jobs, 自食其力 emphasizes the importance of being able to provide for oneself. It highlights the value of having a stable income and not relying on others for financial support.
他从小就学会了自食其力，从不向家里要钱。
- Translation hint
- He learned to support himself by his own labor from a young age, never asking his family for money.
Here, it implies that the person is independent and financially responsible. You might also hear it when discussing entrepreneurship or starting one's own business, as a way to commend someone for their initiative.
她辞职后决定创业，希望能够自食其力。
- Translation hint
- After she resigned, she decided to start her own business, hoping to support herself by her own labor.
§ In Educational Settings and Discussions about Growth
In schools or when talking about a person's development, 自食其力 is used to encourage students or young people to become independent. It's about teaching them the skills and mindset to stand on their own two feet.
老师鼓励学生们要学会自食其力，将来才能更好地适应社会。
- Translation hint
- The teacher encouraged students to learn to support themselves by their own labor so they can better adapt to society in the future.
This phrase emphasizes responsibility and the idea that true success comes from one's own efforts. It's about fostering a sense of capability in individuals.
§ In News and Social Commentary
News reports or social commentaries might use 自食其力 to highlight social issues, such as unemployment, poverty, or government initiatives aimed at helping people become self-sufficient. It often appears in discussions about policy or humanitarian efforts.
政府正在推行项目，帮助失业人员重新就业，实现自食其力。
- Translation hint
- The government is promoting programs to help unemployed people re-enter the workforce and achieve self-reliance.
It can also be used to describe individuals who overcome adversity and achieve independence through their own efforts, making them role models.
Consider the context: Is the speaker praising someone, encouraging someone, or discussing a societal goal?
Look for accompanying words: Words like “学会” (learn), “实现” (achieve), or “鼓励” (encourage) often go with 自食其力 to show the process or goal of self-reliance.
Alright, let's talk about some common pitfalls when using the Chinese phrase 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì). This phrase means to 'support oneself by one's own labor' or 'earn one's own living'. It's pretty straightforward, but there are a few ways learners tend to trip up. We want you to sound natural and accurate, so pay attention to these points!
§ Mistake 1: Using it for temporary situations
自食其力 isn't really for short-term or temporary situations. It describes a general state of being independent and financially self-sufficient, usually over a longer period or as a life principle. If someone is just earning some pocket money for a week, you wouldn't typically use this phrase.
- Wrong Example
- 他暑假打工，所以能自食其力。 (Tā shǔjià dǎgōng, suǒyǐ néng zì shí qí lì.)
*He works during summer vacation, so he can support himself.*
While he is earning money, 'supporting himself' in this context implies a more established independence. For a summer job, a simpler phrase might be better.
§ Mistake 2: Using it for non-labor support
The '力' in 自食其力 specifically refers to one's 'labor' or 'effort'. It's about earning money through work, not through other means like inheriting wealth, winning the lottery, or receiving financial aid without effort. If someone is independently wealthy but doesn't work, you wouldn't use 自食其力 to describe them.
- Wrong Example
- 她继承了一大笔钱，所以可以自食其力。 (Tā jìchéng le yī dà bǐ qián, suǒyǐ kěyǐ zì shí qí lì.)
*She inherited a large sum of money, so she can support herself.*
While she doesn't need external help, her support doesn't come from her own labor. The phrase emphasizes the 'earning' aspect.
§ Mistake 3: Misplacing the emphasis
自食其力 is often used to commend someone's independence or to encourage self-reliance. It carries a positive connotation of hard work and responsibility. If you're just stating a neutral fact about someone's financial situation without this underlying meaning, it might feel a bit off.
- Context to avoid
- Referring to a rich person who works, but the emphasis is solely on their wealth, not their effort to earn a living.
§ Mistake 4: Not using it for people
This might seem obvious, but sometimes learners try to apply phrases to non-human entities. 自食其力 is exclusively used for people or groups of people who are capable of working and earning a living.
- Wrong Example
- 这家公司自食其力。 (Zhè jiā gōngsī zì shí qí lì.)
*This company supports itself.*
While a company is self-sufficient, you wouldn't use this phrase. You'd use other terms like '独立经营' (dúlì jīngyíng - independently operated) or '自负盈亏' (zì fù yíng kuī - responsible for its own profits and losses).
§ Correct Usage Examples
To solidify your understanding, here are a few examples of 自食其力 used correctly:
他从小就学会了自食其力。(Tā cóngxiǎo jiù xuéhuì le zì shí qí lì.)
*He learned to support himself by his own labor from a young age.*父母希望孩子长大后能自食其力。(Fùmǔ xīwàng háizi zhǎngdà hòu néng zì shí qí lì.)
*Parents hope their children can earn their own living when they grow up.*虽然生活很艰难，但她坚持自食其力。(Suīrán shēnghuó hěn jiānnán, dàn tā jiānchí zì shí qí lì.)
*Although life is tough, she insists on supporting herself by her own labor.*
By understanding these common mistakes and focusing on the core meaning of earning a living through one's own effort, you'll use 自食其力 with confidence and accuracy. Keep practicing, and you'll master it!
§ Understanding 自食其力: Self-Reliance
The Chinese phrase 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì) means to support oneself by one's own labor or to earn one's own living. It emphasizes independence and self-sufficiency, often highlighting a transition from reliance on others to personal responsibility. It's a B2-level term, so you'll hear it in conversations about personal growth, societal contributions, and economic independence.
§ Similar Phrases and Their Nuances
While 自食其力 is quite specific, there are other Chinese phrases that touch on similar themes of independence and self-reliance. Let's look at some and understand when to use each.
§ 独立 (dú lì): Independence, Independent
- DEFINITION
- This is a broader term for 'independence.' It can refer to political independence, financial independence, or even being independent in thought or action. While 自食其力 specifically refers to financial self-sufficiency through work, 独立 can cover many types of independence.
这个国家终于获得了独立。(This country finally achieved independence.)
她从小就学会了独立思考。(She learned to think independently from a young age.)
§ 靠自己 (kào zì jǐ): Rely on oneself
- DEFINITION
- This phrase is more direct and informal than 自食其力. It simply means 'to rely on oneself.' It can be about any situation where you don't depend on others, not just financially. It's about self-reliance in a broader, more everyday context.
他从小就知道要靠自己。(He knew from a young age that he had to rely on himself.)
遇到困难时，我们要学会靠自己解决。(When encountering difficulties, we should learn to solve them ourselves.)
§ 自力更生 (zì lì gēng shēng): Self-reliance and regeneration
- DEFINITION
- This idiom is similar to 自食其力 but carries a stronger connotation of overcoming difficulties and achieving prosperity or recovery through one's own efforts. It often implies a situation where external help is unavailable or undesirable, and one must rebuild or start anew. It's more about a collective or larger-scale effort sometimes, but can apply to individuals.
在那个艰苦的年代，人们只能自力更生。(In that difficult era, people could only rely on their own efforts for regeneration.)
这个村庄通过自力更生，摆脱了贫困。(This village escaped poverty through self-reliance and regeneration.)
§ When to use 自食其力
Use 自食其力 specifically when you want to talk about:
- Earning one's own living.
- Not being a burden on others financially.
- The act of supporting oneself through work.
- A person becoming financially independent.
大学毕业后，他决定要自食其力，不再依赖父母。(After graduating from university, he decided to support himself by his own labor and no longer rely on his parents.)
她通过努力工作，实现了自食其力。(Through hard work, she achieved earning her own living.)
How Formal Is It?
"这个社区的居民通过耕种和手工艺实现自给自足。(The residents of this community achieve self-sufficiency through farming and handicrafts.)"
"他从小就学会了独立生活。(He learned to live independently from a young age.)"
"大学毕业后，她开始养活自己了。(After graduating from university, she started to support herself.)"
"小明想要买玩具，所以他决定自己挣钱。(Xiao Ming wanted to buy a toy, so he decided to earn money himself.)"
"你都这么大了，别再啃老了，要学会自食其力。(You're so old now, stop relying on your parents, you need to learn to support yourself.)"
रोचक तथ्य
This idiom highlights the traditional Chinese value of self-sufficiency and hard work. It's often used to commend individuals who are independent and do not rely on others for their livelihood.
उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका
- Incorrect tone on '自' (zì) - often mispronounced as 3rd tone.
- Incorrect tone on '其' (qí) - sometimes mispronounced as 4th tone.
ज़रूरी व्याकरण
The structure '自...其...' (zì... qí...) indicates 'by oneself/by one's own means'. For example, 自学其才 (zì xué qí cái) - to acquire one's talent through self-study.
他自学其才，成为了一个优秀的程序员。(Tā zì xué qí cái, chéngle yīgè yōuxiù de chéngxùyuán.) - He acquired his talent through self-study and became an excellent programmer.
The character 力 (lì) means 'strength' or 'power'. In this context, it refers to one's labor or effort. You often see it in words like 努力 (nǔlì) - to make an effort, or 劳力 (láolì) - physical labor.
他很努力地工作，希望能自食其力。(Tā hěn nǔlì de gōngzuò, xīwàng néng zì shí qí lì.) - He works very hard, hoping to support himself by his own labor.
The phrase can be used as a verb phrase in a sentence. It functions like a predicate, describing an action or state.
大学毕业后，他决定自食其力。(Dàxué bìyè hòu, tā juédìng zì shí qí lì.) - After graduating from university, he decided to support himself by his own labor.
It can also be used with adverbs like 完全 (wánquán) - completely, or 独立 (dúlì) - independently, to emphasize the self-reliance.
她现在完全自食其力了。(Tā xiànzài wánquán zì shí qí lì le.) - She is now completely supporting herself by her own labor.
The phrase often carries a positive connotation, highlighting independence and self-sufficiency.
年轻人应该学会自食其力。(Niánqīng rén yīnggāi xuéhuì zì shí qí lì.) - Young people should learn to support themselves by their own labor.
स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण
他工作，自食其力。
He works and supports himself.
我喜欢自食其力。
I like to support myself.
她很努力，自食其力。
She works hard and earns her own living.
我们应该自食其力。
We should support ourselves.
他自食其力，不靠家人。
He earns his own living, not relying on family.
自食其力是好事。
Supporting oneself is a good thing.
他们都自食其力。
They all support themselves.
她想自食其力。
She wants to earn her own living.
他毕业后就自食其力了。
He supported himself after graduation.
她很早就开始自食其力。
She started to earn her own living very early.
年轻人应该学会自食其力。
Young people should learn to be self-reliant.
父母希望孩子能自食其力。
Parents hope their children can support themselves.
他不想依靠别人，只想自食其力。
He doesn't want to rely on others, he just wants to earn his own living.
通过努力，她终于可以自食其力了。
Through hard work, she can finally support herself.
自食其力是一种美德。
Supporting oneself is a virtue.
即使生活困难，他也要自食其力。
Even if life is difficult, he still wants to support himself.
他从小就学会了自食其力。
He learned to support himself from a young age.
大学毕业后，她决定自食其力，不再依靠父母。
After graduating from university, she decided to earn her own living and no longer rely on her parents.
靠自食其力，他过上了独立的生活。
By supporting himself, he lived an independent life.
我希望我的孩子将来能自食其力。
I hope my children can support themselves in the future.
虽然生活很艰难，但他一直坚持自食其力。
Although life was difficult, he always insisted on earning his own living.
她通过努力工作，实现了自食其力的愿望。
Through hard work, she achieved her wish of supporting herself.
自食其力是一种值得尊敬的品质。
Supporting oneself is a respectable quality.
他们夫妻俩都努力工作，自食其力。
Both husband and wife work hard and support themselves.
大学毕业后，他决定自食其力，不再依靠父母。
After graduating from college, he decided to support himself and no longer rely on his parents.
她从小就学会了自食其力，独立性很强。
She learned to support herself from a young age and is very independent.
虽然生活艰苦，但他坚持自食其力，从不向人求助。
Although life was difficult, he insisted on supporting himself and never asked others for help.
我们应该鼓励年轻人自食其力，为社会做贡献。
We should encourage young people to support themselves and contribute to society.
失去工作后，她通过摆摊自食其力。
After losing her job, she supported herself by setting up a stall.
这对夫妇通过辛勤劳动，最终实现了自食其力。
Through hard work, the couple finally achieved self-sufficiency.
我希望我的孩子将来能自食其力，成为一个有用的人。
I hope my children will be able to support themselves in the future and become useful people.
他从小就立志要自食其力，不给家里增加负担。
From a young age, he was determined to support himself and not burden his family.
大学毕业后，他决定自食其力，不再依靠父母。
After graduating from university, he decided to support himself and no longer rely on his parents.
A common structure is to use '决定' (decide) followed by '自食其力'.
她从小就学会了自食其力，独立生活对她来说不是问题。
She learned to be self-reliant from a young age, so living independently is not a problem for her.
'学会了' (learned to) emphasizes the process of acquiring the ability.
虽然生活很艰难，但他坚持自食其力，从不向人求助。
Although life was difficult, he insisted on supporting himself and never asked others for help.
'坚持' (insist on, persevere) highlights a strong will.
父母鼓励孩子们自食其力，培养他们的独立性。
Parents encourage their children to be self-reliant and cultivate their independence.
'鼓励...自食其力' is a common phrase when talking about parenting.
他年纪轻轻就出来闯荡，完全自食其力。
He went out into the world at a young age and was completely self-sufficient.
'年纪轻轻' (at a young age) emphasizes the early start of being self-reliant.
一个真正独立的人，是能够自食其力的。
A truly independent person is able to support themselves.
'能够' (be able to) indicates capability.
为了实现自食其力，她付出了很多努力。
To achieve self-sufficiency, she put in a lot of effort.
'实现' (achieve) is often used with '自食其力' when talking about a goal.
经过多年的奋斗，他终于可以自食其力，过上自己想要的生活了。
After years of struggle, he can finally support himself and live the life he wants.
'终于' (finally) implies a long process to reach the goal.
大学毕业后，他决定不再依靠父母，而是选择自食其力。
After graduating from university, he decided no longer to rely on his parents, but rather chose to support himself by his own labor.
她从小就学会了自食其力，独立性很强。
From a young age, she learned to earn her own living, and is very independent.
即使生活再艰难，他也要坚持自食其力，不向命运低头。
Even if life is difficult, he still wants to insist on supporting himself, and not surrender to fate.
通过自己的努力，她终于实现了自食其力，过上了想要的生活。
Through her own efforts, she finally achieved self-sufficiency and lived the life she wanted.
在福利制度完善的国家，人们依然鼓励自食其力。
In countries with well-developed welfare systems, people are still encouraged to support themselves.
他认为，年轻人应该尽早学会自食其力，为自己的未来负责。
He believes that young people should learn to support themselves as early as possible and be responsible for their own future.
虽然她家境富裕，但她依然选择自食其力，不愿意依赖家庭。
Although she comes from a wealthy family, she still chooses to earn her own living and is unwilling to rely on her family.
他辞去了稳定的工作，开始创业，希望能通过自食其力实现自己的价值。
He resigned from his stable job and started a business, hoping to realize his value by supporting himself.
सामान्य शब्द संयोजन
सामान्य वाक्यांश
他靠自食其力过上了好日子。
He lived a good life by [supporting himself].
年轻人应该学会自食其力。
Young people should learn to [support themselves].
她从小就非常独立，自食其力。
She was very independent from a young age, [supporting herself].
父母希望孩子能早日自食其力。
Parents hope their children can [support themselves] soon.
即使生活困难，他也要自食其力。
Even if life is difficult, he still wants to [support himself].
通过努力工作，她终于能够自食其力了。
Through hard work, she was finally able to [support herself].
这是一个提倡自食其力的社会。
This is a society that advocates [self-reliance].
他不愿意依赖别人，只想自食其力。
He doesn't want to rely on others, only wants to [support himself].
我们应该培养孩子自食其力的能力。
We should cultivate our children's ability to [support themselves].
只有自食其力，才能真正实现自由。
Only by [supporting oneself] can one truly achieve freedom.
अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है
While both relate to independence, 独立 is broader, covering all forms of independence, whereas 自食其力 specifically means to financially support oneself through one's own work.
This is a more direct and common phrase for 'supporting oneself' (often for basic needs), while 自食其力 is an idiom with a slightly more formal and positive connotation of self-reliance through labor.
This is a general, colloquial phrase for 'relying on oneself' in any situation, not necessarily for earning a living, unlike 自食其力.
मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ
"靠自己的双手"
Rely on one's own hands; by one's own efforts
他靠自己的双手创造了财富。(He created wealth with his own hands.)
neutral"独立自主"
Independent and self-reliant
这个国家主张独立自主的政策。(This country advocates an independent and self-reliant policy.)
formal"自力更生"
Self-reliance; regeneration through one's own efforts
他们通过自力更生，改变了家乡的面貌。(They changed the appearance of their hometown through self-reliance.)
formal"丰衣足食"
Well-fed and well-clothed; live in plenty
祝你一生丰衣足食。(I wish you a life of plenty.)
neutral"勤劳致富"
Become rich through hard work
他相信勤劳致富的道理。(He believes in the principle of becoming rich through hard work.)
neutral"不劳而获"
Reap without sowing; gain without effort
他不喜欢不劳而获。(He doesn't like to gain without effort.)
neutral"一技之长"
A skill; professional skill
他有一技之长，不用担心找不到工作。(He has a skill, so he doesn't have to worry about finding a job.)
neutral"养家糊口"
Support one's family; make a living
他努力工作，为了养家糊口。(He works hard to support his family.)
neutral"自给自足"
Self-sufficient
这个村庄实现了自给自足。(This village achieved self-sufficiency.)
neutral"顶天立地"
Of dauntless spirit; indomitable
他是一个顶天立地的男子汉。(He is an indomitable man.)
neutralआसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले
Both 自食其力 and 独立 relate to self-sufficiency. However, 独立 is a broader term meaning 'independent' or 'to be independent,' which can apply to many aspects beyond just financial self-support.
自食其力 specifically refers to earning one's own living through work. 独立 can refer to independence in thought, action, or state, not just financial.
他已经成年了，应该独立生活了。(He's an adult now, he should live independently.)
This phrase also means 'rely on oneself,' similar to the idea of self-reliance in 自食其力.
靠自己 is a more general and colloquial phrase for relying on oneself in any situation, not exclusively for earning a living. 自食其力 is more formal and specifically about financial independence through one's own work.
遇到困难时，我们要学会靠自己解决。(When we encounter difficulties, we must learn to solve them ourselves.)
This phrase literally means 'to support oneself' or 'to feed oneself,' which is very close in meaning to 自食其力.
养活自己 is a more common and direct way to say 'to support oneself,' often implying basic sustenance. 自食其力 carries a slightly more formal and often positive connotation of working hard and being self-reliant.
他大学毕业后，就开始养活自己了。(After graduating from university, he started to support himself.)
This idiom means 'regeneration through one's own efforts' or 'self-reliance and hard struggle,' sharing the core idea of self-sufficiency.
自力更生 emphasizes rebuilding or developing something through one's own efforts, often in a difficult or pioneering context. 自食其力 is simpler and focuses purely on earning one's living.
在困难时期，他们发扬了自力更生的精神。(During difficult times, they displayed the spirit of self-reliance.)
This verb means 'to make a living' or 'to seek a livelihood,' directly related to earning money.
谋生 is a verb describing the act of making a living. 自食其力 is a set phrase (idiom) that describes the state or ability of supporting oneself through one's own labor, often implying a sense of pride or accomplishment.
他为了谋生，去了国外工作。(He went to work abroad to make a living.)
शब्द परिवार
संज्ञा
क्रिया
सुझाव
Literal Meaning Breakdown
Understand the individual characters: 自 (zì) means 'self', 食 (shí) means 'eat' (here, to live off), 其 (qí) means 'one's' (possessive pronoun), and 力 (lì) means 'strength/labor'. So, literally, 'to feed oneself by one's own strength'.
Contextual Use
This phrase is often used when someone becomes independent or starts earning their own money after relying on others, like children moving out and getting jobs.
Example 1: Young Adult
他大学毕业后，就自食其力了。 (Tā dàxué bìyè hòu, jiù zìshíqílì le.) After graduating from university, he supported himself.
Example 2: Overcoming Hardship
虽然生活很困难，但他一直坚持自食其力。 (Suīrán shēnghuó hěn kùnnan, dàn tā yīzhí jiānchí zìshíqílì.) Although life was difficult, he always insisted on earning his own living.
Formal and Positive Tone
自食其力 carries a relatively formal and positive connotation, emphasizing self-reliance and independence.
Antonym Consideration
The opposite could be someone who relies on others (依赖别人 - yīlài biérén) or is a parasite (寄生虫 - jìshēngchóng), though the latter is much stronger.
Cultural Value
In Chinese culture, being able to 自食其力 is a highly valued trait, reflecting responsibility and contribution to society.
Verb Usage
Remember it functions as a verb phrase, so you can often put it directly after the subject or with adverbs.
Practice with Sentences
Try to form your own sentences describing situations where someone needs to 自食其力. This helps cement your understanding.
Similar but Different
While 'independent' (独立 - dúlì) is related, 自食其力 specifically focuses on financial independence through one's own labor.
शब्द की उत्पत्ति
The phrase 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì) is composed of four characters. 自 (zì) means 'self' or 'from oneself'. 食 (shí) means 'to eat' or, in this context, 'to support oneself'. 其 (qí) is a possessive pronoun meaning 'his/her/its/their'. 力 (lì) means 'strength' or 'labor'.
मूल अर्थ: Literally, it means 'to eat by one's own strength/labor', conveying the idea of self-reliance and independence through one's own efforts.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic languages, Chinese.सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ
The concept of 自食其力 is deeply embedded in Chinese culture, reflecting a strong emphasis on diligence and personal responsibility. It's a highly regarded virtue, and children are often encouraged from a young age to develop the skills and work ethic necessary to be self-sufficient adults. This idiom often carries a positive connotation, celebrating an individual's ability to stand on their own two feet and contribute to society through their own efforts.
असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें
वास्तविक संदर्भ
Talking about financial independence and adulthood.
- 大学毕业后，他开始自食其力了。
- After graduating from university, he started to support himself.
- 她一直靠自己自食其力。
- She has always supported herself by her own efforts.
Discussing someone's resilience or hard work.
- 虽然生活很艰难，但他坚持自食其力。
- Although life is tough, he insists on supporting himself.
- 通过自食其力，她最终实现了自己的梦想。
- By earning her own living, she eventually realized her dreams.
Encouraging someone to be independent.
- 你长大了，应该学会自食其力了。
- You're grown up now, you should learn to support yourself.
- 父母希望孩子能够自食其力。
- Parents hope their children can support themselves.
Describing a situation where someone is not reliant on others.
- 他从小就养成了自食其力的习惯。
- He developed the habit of supporting himself since childhood.
- 他们一家人都是自食其力的劳动者。
- Their whole family are self-sufficient workers.
In a formal or written context about self-reliance.
- 提倡自食其力的精神。
- Advocate the spirit of self-reliance.
- 自食其力是中华民族的传统美德。
- Self-reliance is a traditional virtue of the Chinese nation.
बातचीत की शुरुआत
"你觉得年轻人应该什么时候开始自食其力？"
"对你来说，自食其力意味着什么？"
"有没有你认识的人，他们的自食其力精神让你印象深刻？"
"在你的文化中，自食其力被如何看待？"
"你会如何鼓励一个正在努力自食其力的人？"
डायरी विषय
描述你第一次自食其力的经历。
如果让你给一个即将开始自食其力生活的朋友一些建议，你会说什么？
你认为在现代社会，自食其力面临的最大挑战是什么？
写一篇关于你对“自食其力”的理解的短文。
想象一下五年后你的生活，你希望自己在经济上达到怎样的自食其力状态？
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल
10 सवालThink of it literally: '自' (zì) means self, '食' (shí) means eat, '其' (qí) means one's, and '力' (lì) means strength/labor. So, it's about feeding oneself through one's own efforts. Imagine someone diligently working to earn their food.
Not really. '自食其力' implies earning a livelihood to support oneself financially, usually as an adult. Chores for allowance is more about responsibility or earning pocket money. It's not about being financially independent.
It's definitely a positive term. It praises independence, self-reliance, and hard work. It's about being able to stand on your own two feet.
It's generally a more formal or literary phrase, but it's not out of place in everyday conversation when you want to express the idea of self-reliance. You'd hear it in news, speeches, or when discussing someone's admirable independence.
工作 (gōngzuò) is simply the action of working. 自食其力 goes further; it emphasizes the outcome of that work – being able to support yourself. Someone might 工作, but still rely on family for support. Someone who 自食其力 doesn't.
A similar, but perhaps slightly less formal, idea is 自己养活自己 (zìjǐ yǎnghuo zìjǐ), which means 'to support oneself.' This is more colloquial. '独立 (dúlì)' means independent, which is related but doesn't specifically mean 'by one's own labor'.
You wouldn't typically use it for a business or a country. '自食其力' specifically refers to an individual supporting themselves. For a country, you might say something like '独立自主 (dúlì zìzhǔ)' which means 'independent and self-reliant'.
You'd use it to describe someone who has become financially independent, perhaps after graduating, or overcoming difficulties.
Example: 他大学毕业后，就一直自食其力。(Tā dàxué bìyè hòu, jiù yīzhí zìshíqílì.) - After graduating from university, he has always supported himself by his own labor.
Yes, it absolutely implies working hard and diligently. The '力' (lì) part strongly suggests effort and labor. It's not about easy money; it's about earning your keep.
The pinyin is zì shí qí lì.
The tones are:
自 (zì): 4th tone (falling tone)
食 (shí): 2nd tone (rising tone)
其 (qí): 2nd tone (rising tone)
力 (lì): 4th tone (falling tone)
Pay attention to the rising and falling movements of your voice for each syllable.
खुद को परखो 162 सवाल
她很努力工作，可以___。
The sentence talks about working hard to support oneself. '自食其力' means to support oneself by one's own labor.
他毕业后找到了工作，现在可以___了。
The context is about finding a job after graduation, which leads to supporting oneself. '自食其力' fits this meaning.
年轻人应该学会___，不要总是依赖父母。
The sentence advises young people not to rely on parents, implying they should learn to support themselves. '自食其力' is the correct choice.
她从小就独立，一直努力___。
The sentence describes someone who is independent and works hard. '自食其力' means to be self-reliant.
没有家人帮助，他只能___。
Without family help, one has to support themselves. '自食其力' means to earn one's own living.
虽然很辛苦，但她很高兴可以___。
Even though it's hard, she's happy she can support herself. '自食其力' is the appropriate phrase.
Which of these means 'to eat'?
吃 (chī) means 'to eat'.
What is the English meaning of '力' (lì)?
力 (lì) means 'strength' or 'power'.
Which of these means 'my' or 'mine'?
我 (wǒ) means 'I' or 'me', and in '我的' (wǒ de) it means 'my' or 'mine'.
The character '自' (zì) means 'self'.
自 (zì) indeed means 'self' or 'from'.
The word '其' (qí) in '自食其力' means 'he' or 'she'.
In '自食其力', 其 (qí) acts as a possessive pronoun meaning 'one's own', not 'he' or 'she'.
The word '力' (lì) in '自食其力' is related to 'money'.
力 (lì) means 'strength' or 'power', referring to one's labor, not directly to money.
Listen and understand 'hello'.
Listen and understand 'thank you'.
Listen and understand 'goodbye'.
Read this aloud:
你好
Focus: nǐ hǎo
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
谢谢
Focus: xiè xie
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
再见
Focus: zài jiàn
तुमने कहा:
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Write a short sentence about what you do every day.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我每天学习汉语。
Write a sentence introducing yourself to a new friend.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你好，我是学生。
Write a simple sentence describing your family.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我有一个爸爸和妈妈。
我的书是什么书？
Read this passage:
这是我的书。我的书是中文书。我喜欢读中文书。
我的书是什么书？
文章中说 '我的书是中文书' (My book is a Chinese book).
文章中说 '我的书是中文书' (My book is a Chinese book).
她喜欢喝什么？
Read this passage:
她很喜欢喝茶。她每天都喝茶。
她喜欢喝什么？
文章中说 '她很喜欢喝茶' (She really likes to drink tea).
文章中说 '她很喜欢喝茶' (She really likes to drink tea).
他的职业是什么？
Read this passage:
他是一个老师。他教中文。他的学生都喜欢他。
他的职业是什么？
文章中说 '他是一个老师' (He is a teacher).
文章中说 '他是一个老师' (He is a teacher).
This sentence asks 'Is he a student?' The basic structure is Subject + Verb + Object + Question Particle.
This is a simple declarative sentence 'I love you.' The structure is Subject + Verb + Object.
This is a common greeting 'How are you?' The structure is Subject + Adjective + Question Particle.
她想快点长大，然后可以自己___。
The sentence means 'She wants to grow up quickly so she can support herself.' '自食其力' fits perfectly here.
毕业后，他决定留在北京___。
The sentence means 'After graduation, he decided to stay in Beijing to support himself.' '自食其力' is the most appropriate choice.
很多年轻人选择去大城市___。
The sentence means 'Many young people choose to go to big cities to support themselves.' '自食其力' fits the context of working and living independently.
从小她就学会了___，不再依赖父母。
The sentence means 'She learned to support herself from a young age, no longer relying on her parents.' '自食其力' emphasizes independence.
他虽然年纪小，但是已经可以___了。
The sentence means 'Although he is young, he can already support himself.' '自食其力' highlights his independence despite his age.
我们应该鼓励孩子们将来___。
The sentence means 'We should encourage children to support themselves in the future.' '自食其力' promotes self-reliance.
她想___，不想依靠父母。
The sentence means 'She wants to support herself and not rely on her parents,' so '自食其力' (to support oneself by one's own labor) is the correct choice.
毕业后，他决定出去工作，___。
The sentence means 'After graduation, he decided to go out and work, to support himself.' '自食其力' fits perfectly.
小明虽然年纪小，但他会做家务，很早就学会了___。
The sentence implies that even though Xiao Ming is young, he is independent. '自食其力' (to support oneself) is the most appropriate idiom.
一个总是依靠别人的人，可以说是“自食其力”。
“自食其力” means to support oneself by one's own labor, so someone who always relies on others cannot be described as '自食其力'.
他通过自己的努力工作赚取生活费，这是“自食其力”。
Working hard to earn one's living expenses perfectly aligns with the meaning of “自食其力”.
“自食其力”的意思是依靠父母给钱生活。
“自食其力” means to support oneself, not to rely on parents for money.
I like to support myself.
He started to support himself.
You must support yourself.
Read this aloud:
我能自食其力。
Focus: zì shí qí lì
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
她很早就自食其力了。
Focus: zì shí qí lì
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
学会自食其力很重要。
Focus: zì shí qí lì
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You want to say that someone works hard to support themselves. How would you express this using the word '自食其力'?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他很努力，总是自食其力。
Imagine a young person who has just started working and is proud to be independent. How would they describe their situation using '自食其力'?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我现在工作了，可以自食其力了。
You are writing a short sentence about an adult who doesn't rely on their parents for money. Use '自食其力' in your sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他已经长大了，现在自食其力，不靠父母。
小王为什么说他可以自食其力了？
Read this passage:
小王不喜欢花父母的钱。他找到了一份工作，每天都很认真地工作。他想通过自己的努力，好好地生活。他告诉朋友，他现在可以自食其力了。
小王为什么说他可以自食其力了？
文章中提到小王找到了工作，并说他可以自食其力了，这直接表明了原因。
文章中提到小王找到了工作，并说他可以自食其力了，这直接表明了原因。
文章中提到年轻人为什么希望自食其力？
Read this passage:
很多年轻人毕业后，都希望尽快找到工作，实现自食其力。这样他们就可以有自己的生活，不用再依赖家人。
文章中提到年轻人为什么希望自食其力？
文章中提到了年轻人希望自食其力的几个原因，包括找到工作、有自己的生活、不再依赖家人。
文章中提到了年轻人希望自食其力的几个原因，包括找到工作、有自己的生活、不再依赖家人。
根据文章，老李是怎样的人？
Read this passage:
老李是一个很独立的人。他年轻的时候就开始工作，从来没有向别人借过钱。他总是说，靠自己的努力生活才是最好的。
根据文章，老李是怎样的人？
文章中描述老李独立，并强调他靠自己的努力生活，符合'自食其力'的含义。
文章中描述老李独立，并强调他靠自己的努力生活，符合'自食其力'的含义。
This sentence means 'He works at home.' The correct order is subject, prepositional phrase for location, then verb.
This sentence means 'Did I eat breakfast?' The structure is subject, verb, aspect particle, object, question particle.
This sentence means 'She really likes learning Chinese.' The adverb '很' (very) comes before the verb '喜欢' (like).
她从小就学会了_______，不再依靠父母。
The sentence indicates she learned to be independent, so '自食其力' (support oneself by one's own labor) is the best fit.
大学毕业后，他决定_______，找一份工作来养活自己。
The context implies he wants to earn his own living after graduation, making '自食其力' the correct choice.
尽管生活很艰难，她还是坚持_______，不向任何人求助。
The sentence suggests she is determined to support herself without help, so '自食其力' is the most appropriate option.
一个能够自食其力的人，通常指他有能力依靠自己的努力来赚钱生活。
'自食其力' means to support oneself by one's own labor, which aligns with earning a living through one's own efforts.
如果一个人得到了父母的经济支持，他就可以被称为是自食其力。
'自食其力' specifically means to support oneself by one's *own* labor, not with parental financial support.
小明每天做家务，所以他是在自食其力。
While doing housework is responsible, '自食其力' refers to earning one's own living, not just household chores.
He has supported himself since graduation.
She hopes her children can all support themselves.
Young people should learn to be self-reliant.
Read this aloud:
通过努力工作，他做到了自食其力。
Focus: 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我一直教导我的孩子要自食其力。
Focus: 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
有了这份工作，她终于可以自食其力了。
Focus: 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a time when you or someone you know had to start earning their own living.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我大学毕业后，找到了第一份工作。从那时起，我就开始自食其力了。虽然很辛苦，但也很有成就感。
Explain why it is important for young people to learn to support themselves.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
年轻人应该学会自食其力，因为这让他们变得更独立，有责任感。这也是他们成长的重要一步。
Write a short paragraph about the challenges and rewards of being self-sufficient.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
自食其力可能会面临很多挑战，比如找工作和管理财务。但是，它也有很多回报，比如获得经济自由和更强的自信心。
小明毕业后做了什么？
Read this passage:
小明大学毕业后，没有选择回家依靠父母，而是去了另一个城市找工作。他租了一个小公寓，每天努力工作，希望有一天能完全自食其力。虽然生活很辛苦，但他觉得很充实。
小明毕业后做了什么？
文章中明确提到小明去了另一个城市找工作。
文章中明确提到小明去了另一个城市找工作。
李阿姨为什么很早就开始工作？
Read this passage:
李阿姨年轻的时候家里很穷，她很早就开始工作，自食其力。她努力学习各种技能，慢慢地开了一家小店。现在她的生活很好，她说这一切都是靠自己的努力得来的。
李阿姨为什么很早就开始工作？
文章中提到“李阿姨年轻的时候家里很穷，她很早就开始工作，自食其力”。
文章中提到“李阿姨年轻的时候家里很穷，她很早就开始工作，自食其力”。
王叔叔为什么教育孩子们要自食其力？
Read this passage:
王叔叔从小就告诉他的孩子们，长大后一定要自食其力。他认为，只有这样，他们才能真正独立，才能在社会上立足。他的孩子们都牢记他的话，现在都过得很好。
王叔叔为什么教育孩子们要自食其力？
文章中明确指出王叔叔认为“只有这样，他们才能真正独立，才能在社会上立足”。
文章中明确指出王叔叔认为“只有这样，他们才能真正独立，才能在社会上立足”。
This sentence means 'He wants to support himself.'
This sentence means 'She has been supporting herself since graduation.'
This sentence means 'We should encourage children to support themselves.'
她从小就学会了___，不再依赖父母。
The sentence implies supporting oneself financially, which '自食其力' directly means.
大学毕业后，他决定___，不向家里要一分钱。
The context of not asking for money from family after graduation points to earning one's own living.
这位年轻的艺术家通过自己的努力，终于能够___了。
The phrase '通过自己的努力' (through one's own efforts) strongly suggests achieving self-sufficiency.
她虽然身有残疾，但依然坚持___，令人敬佩。
Despite a disability, her admirable persistence to support herself aligns with '自食其力'.
我们应该鼓励年轻人早日___，而不是啃老。
The contrast with '啃老' (relying on parents) makes '自食其力' the correct choice for encouraging independence.
农民们通过辛勤劳动，过上了___的生活。
Farmers earning their livelihood through hard work is a direct application of '自食其力'.
她从小就学会了_______，不再依赖父母。
The sentence indicates independence from parents, which aligns with 'support oneself by one's own labor'.
大学毕业后，他决定_______，不想成为啃老族。
The phrase '啃老族' (a term for adults who rely on their parents) suggests the opposite of '自食其力'.
作为一个成年人，我们应该_______，而不是总是指望别人。
The context of being an adult and not always relying on others directly points to '自食其力'. '自给自足' is similar but often implies self-sufficiency in resources, not just labor.
一个能够自食其力的人，通常不需要别人的帮助。
Even those who are '自食其力' may still need or appreciate help from others; it doesn't mean complete isolation.
孩子们上大学后，父母希望他们能够逐渐自食其力。
This is a common expectation for children as they grow older and become more independent.
如果你自食其力，那就意味着你有很多钱。
While being '自食其力' means earning your own living, it doesn't automatically mean having a lot of money; it means being financially independent.
Listen for how he learned to support himself.
Listen to what she decided after graduation.
Listen for what is a basic ability for adults.
Read this aloud:
我一直教我的孩子要自食其力。
Focus: 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
即使生活再困难，我们也要自食其力。
Focus: 即使 (jíshǐ)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
能够自食其力让我感到非常自豪。
Focus: 自豪 (zìháo)
तुमने कहा:
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This sentence means 'He has always worked hard to support himself.' The word order for '一直' (always) and '努力' (work hard) before '自食其力' is standard.
This phrase means 'to support oneself with one's own hands.' '靠' (rely on) precedes '自己的双手' (one's own hands) which then leads to '自食其力' (support oneself).
This sentence means 'They learned how to support themselves.' The structure is 'Subject + verb + how to + action.'
她从小就学会了___，不再依赖父母。
Context indicates supporting oneself, '自食其力' fits perfectly.
大学毕业后，他决定留在城市___，不回老家。
The sentence describes someone earning a living after graduation, so '自食其力' is the correct choice.
即使生活再困难，我们也要坚持___，不向别人伸手。
The sentence emphasizes independence despite hardship, so '自食其力' is appropriate.
他从小就立志要___，不想成为家里的负担。
The statement expresses a desire for financial independence, making '自食其力' the best fit.
经过多年的努力，他终于可以___，过上了独立的生活。
The sentence describes achieving financial independence after hard work, so '自食其力' is the correct term.
在新的环境中，我们需要尽快适应并学会___。
The context implies the need to become independent in a new environment, so '自食其力' is the suitable phrase.
Which of the following situations best describes someone who is 自食其力?
自食其力 means to support oneself by one's own labor. A student earning money through a part-time job fits this definition.
If someone is always asking for financial help from others, they are NOT acting in a way that is:
自食其力 means to support oneself without relying on others. Constantly asking for financial help goes against this principle.
Which sentence correctly uses 自食其力?
自食其力 refers to earning one's living. An artist selling paintings to support themselves is a correct usage.
一个通过努力工作获得收入的人可以被描述为自食其力。
This statement is true. 自食其力 directly means to support oneself through one's own efforts and labor.
如果一个人继承了巨额遗产，他/她就是自食其力。
This statement is false. Inheriting wealth is not the same as earning a living through one's own labor. 自食其力 implies effort and work.
在经济困难时，坚持自食其力意味着不寻求任何帮助。
This statement is false. While 自食其力 emphasizes self-reliance, it doesn't strictly mean never seeking any help. It focuses on earning one's own living rather than depending on others for everything. Seeking temporary or specific help might still be part of a self-sufficient life.
The speaker is talking about someone learning to be independent.
The speaker is describing a person's resilience in supporting themselves.
The speaker mentions someone's choice after graduation.
Read this aloud:
自食其力是成年人应有的责任。
Focus: 责任 (zé rèn)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
我希望我的孩子将来能够自食其力。
Focus: 希望 (xī wàng)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
通过努力工作，他最终实现了自食其力。
Focus: 实现 (shí xiàn)
तुमने कहा:
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You've been offered financial help from your family, but you want to prove you can be independent. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) explaining your desire to 自食其力 and why it's important to you. Focus on using '自食其力' naturally in context.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
谢谢您们的好意，但我真的想尝试自食其力。我认为这是一个很好的机会让我独立成长，学习如何承担自己的责任。我相信通过自己的努力，我能更好地掌握自己的生活。
Imagine a friend is struggling to find a job after graduation and feels discouraged about their financial situation. Write a short encouraging message (3-4 sentences) to them, advising them to not give up and to strive to 自食其力.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我知道你现在可能有点难过，但请不要放弃。我相信你有能力自食其力，找到一份好工作。只要你坚持下去，努力奋斗，就一定能实现自己的目标。
Describe a personal goal or a past experience where you had to 自食其力 to achieve something. Explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. (3-4 sentences)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
大学毕业后，我决定自己创业，完全自食其力。虽然一开始面临很多挑战，资金也很紧张，但我通过不断学习和努力工作，最终克服了困难，让公司走上了正轨。这段经历让我更加独立和自信。
小明为什么觉得幸福？
Read this passage:
小明大学毕业后，没有选择依靠父母，而是独自一人到大城市打拼。他白天在公司上班，晚上兼职做家教，虽然很辛苦，但他觉得很充实。他常说：“能自食其力，过上自己想要的生活，就是最大的幸福。”
小明为什么觉得幸福？
文章明确提到小明认为“能自食其力，过上自己想要的生活，就是最大的幸福”。
文章明确提到小明认为“能自食其力，过上自己想要的生活，就是最大的幸福”。
根据这段文字，一个国家发展壮大的重要条件是什么？
Read this passage:
一个国家要发展壮大，就必须鼓励人民自食其力，发挥自己的创造力。只有人人都能通过自己的劳动获得回报，社会才能充满活力，国家才能繁荣昌盛。政府应该提供更多机会，帮助年轻人实现自食其力。
根据这段文字，一个国家发展壮大的重要条件是什么？
文章明确指出“一个国家要发展壮大，就必须鼓励人民自食其力，发挥自己的创造力”。
文章明确指出“一个国家要发展壮大，就必须鼓励人民自食其力，发挥自己的创造力”。
小芳为了自食其力做了哪些努力？
Read this passage:
自从她父亲生病后，小芳就不得不辍学回家照顾家庭，并努力工作以自食其力。她白天在工厂上班，晚上还兼职做手工活，虽然生活非常艰难，但她从不抱怨。她坚信只要努力，生活一定会好起来。
小芳为了自食其力做了哪些努力？
文章提到小芳“白天在工厂上班，晚上还兼职做手工活”以自食其力。
文章提到小芳“白天在工厂上班，晚上还兼职做手工活”以自食其力。
他从小就明白，要想在社会上立足，必须学会___。
The sentence implies that one must be self-reliant to establish oneself in society. '自食其力' means to support oneself by one's own labor, which fits the context perfectly.
经过多年的努力，他终于可以完全___，不再需要家里的资助了。
The context suggests that after years of hard work, he can now fully support himself without family help. '自食其力' is the appropriate idiom.
她一直鼓励自己的孩子，长大后要成为一个能够___的人。
A mother encouraging her children to be independent and self-sufficient aligns with the meaning of '自食其力'.
虽然白手起家很不容易，但他凭借自己的勤奋和智慧，最终实现了___。
Starting from scratch and achieving success through diligence and wisdom perfectly illustrates the concept of '自食其力'.
社会福利是为了帮助那些暂时无法___的人，但最终目标是让他们重回正轨。
Social welfare aims to assist individuals who temporarily cannot support themselves, with the goal of helping them become self-reliant again. '自食其力' fits here.
面对困境，她没有选择退缩，而是选择___，努力克服一切困难。
In the face of adversity, choosing to be self-reliant and overcome difficulties is the appropriate meaning of '自食其力'.
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 他从小就学会了___，不再依赖父母。
The sentence indicates that he learned to support himself and no longer depended on his parents, which perfectly matches the meaning of '自食其力'.
Which of the following scenarios best describes someone who is '自食其力'?
'自食其力' means supporting oneself by one's own labor. The college student earning their own way fits this definition best.
Which of the following sentences correctly uses '自食其力'?
'自食其力' is used to describe a person's ability to support themselves. The sentence about an elderly person losing this ability is the correct usage.
一个完全依赖父母资助生活的人，可以被称为“自食其力”。
'自食其力' specifically means supporting oneself by one's own labor, not by parental support.
通过努力工作获得报酬来维持生计，是“自食其力”的体现。
This statement perfectly aligns with the definition of '自食其力', which is to support oneself through one's own work.
“自食其力”通常指的是一个人在经济上独立，不依靠他人。
The core meaning of '自食其力' is indeed about financial independence and self-reliance.
The speaker is talking about someone learning to be independent.
The sentence describes someone overcoming difficulties through self-reliance.
The speaker is giving advice to young people about self-sufficiency.
Read this aloud:
大学毕业后，我希望能尽快自食其力。
Focus: 自食其力 (zì shí qí lì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
靠自己的努力自食其力，才能真正体会到成功的喜悦。
Focus: 体会 (tǐ huì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
她通过自己的才华和努力，实现了自食其力，成为了一个独立的人。
Focus: 独立 (dú lì)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine a young adult who has just graduated from university. Describe their journey to becoming financially independent, using '自食其力' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
小李大学毕业后，并没有选择依靠父母，而是毅然决然地开始了求职之路。他深知要尽快自食其力，减轻家庭负担。经过几个月的努力，他终于找到了一份满意的工作，并租下了自己的小公寓。虽然过程充满挑战，但他为能自食其力而感到无比骄傲。
Discuss the importance of teaching children to '自食其力' from a young age. What are the benefits and potential challenges?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
从小培养孩子自食其力的能力至关重要。这不仅能让他们学会独立解决问题，还能培养他们的责任感和吃苦耐劳的精神。虽然过程中可能会遇到一些困难，比如孩子可能不理解，或者家长需要放手让孩子尝试，但长远来看，这对于他们未来的成长和发展大有裨益。
Write a short paragraph about someone you admire who embodies the spirit of '自食其力'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我最佩服的人是我的叔叔。他年轻时家境贫寒，但他从不抱怨，一直努力工作，坚持自食其力。他白天在工厂上班，晚上自学技术，最终凭借自己的双手创立了一家小企业。他的故事告诉我，只要肯努力，即使没有背景，也能通过自己的奋斗闯出一番天地。
根据这段文字，王明为什么很早就开始打零工？
Read this passage:
王明从小就懂得生活的艰辛。他的父母在他很小的时候就去世了，他不得不和年迈的奶奶相依为命。为了减轻奶奶的负担，他很早就开始打零工，决心要自食其力，不让奶奶再为他操心。
根据这段文字，王明为什么很早就开始打零工？
文中明确指出“为了减轻奶奶的负担，他很早就开始打零工，决心要自食其力”。
文中明确指出“为了减轻奶奶的负担，他很早就开始打零工，决心要自食其力”。
这段文字主要表达了什么？
Read this passage:
随着社会的发展，越来越多的年轻人选择离开父母的庇护，到大城市闯荡。他们希望能凭借自己的努力，在大城市扎根，实现真正意义上的自食其力。然而，这条道路往往充满挑战，需要付出巨大的努力和毅力。
这段文字主要表达了什么？
文章描述了年轻人离开父母去大城市追求独立和自食其力，并指出这条道路充满挑战。
文章描述了年轻人离开父母去大城市追求独立和自食其力，并指出这条道路充满挑战。
根据这段文字，国民具备自食其力的精神对国家发展有何影响？
Read this passage:
一个国家要强大，国民就必须具备自食其力的精神。只有每个人都积极劳动，创造财富，整个社会才能持续发展。反之，如果国民普遍依赖他人或政府，国家就难以进步。
根据这段文字，国民具备自食其力的精神对国家发展有何影响？
文中提到“只有每个人都积极劳动，创造财富，整个社会才能持续发展”，强调了自食其力对国家发展的重要性。
文中提到“只有每个人都积极劳动，创造财富，整个社会才能持续发展”，强调了自食其力对国家发展的重要性。
This sentence means 'He decided to live by himself.' It's a simpler way to express the idea of self-reliance, aligning with '自食其力'.
This sentence translates to 'She achieved complete financial independence,' which is a core aspect of '自食其力'.
Meaning 'He no longer relies on his parents,' this highlights the independent nature implied by '自食其力'.
/ 162 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
自食其力 emphasizes the importance of working to support oneself and achieve independence.
- self-reliance
- financial independence
- earning one's living
Literal Meaning Breakdown
Understand the individual characters: 自 (zì) means 'self', 食 (shí) means 'eat' (here, to live off), 其 (qí) means 'one's' (possessive pronoun), and 力 (lì) means 'strength/labor'. So, literally, 'to feed oneself by one's own strength'.
Contextual Use
This phrase is often used when someone becomes independent or starts earning their own money after relying on others, like children moving out and getting jobs.
Example 1: Young Adult
他大学毕业后，就自食其力了。 (Tā dàxué bìyè hòu, jiù zìshíqílì le.) After graduating from university, he supported himself.
Example 2: Overcoming Hardship
虽然生活很困难，但他一直坚持自食其力。 (Suīrán shēnghuó hěn kùnnan, dàn tā yīzhí jiānchí zìshíqílì.) Although life was difficult, he always insisted on earning his own living.
संबंधित सामग्री
संबंधित मुहावरे
daily_life के और शब्द
朝九晚五
B2From nine to five; regular working hours.
未免
B2Rather; a bit too; truly (implies something excessive).
废弃
B2To abandon; to discard; to cease to use.
恪守
B2To scrupulously observe; to strictly adhere to.
反常
B2abnormal, unusual
充裕
B2Abundant; ample.
充沛
B2Abundant; plentiful; full of energy.
门禁卡
B2Access card; entry card.
门禁
B2Access control (system).
配件
B2Fittings; accessories; spare parts.
