In 15 Seconds
- Steady, long-term progress that avoids burnout.
- Common in business, environment, and personal development.
- Combines achievement with sustainability and growth.
- Shows maturity and long-term vision in Chinese.
Meaning
This phrase describes the holy grail of business and personal development: growth that doesn't cause a burnout. It's the difference between a viral TikTok star who disappears and a creator who builds a loyal community over a decade. It implies a healthy balance where you move forward without destroying your resources or health.
Key Examples
3 of 10In a corporate board meeting
我们的核心目标是实现可持续增长,而不是短期投机。
Our core goal is to achieve sustainable growth, not short-term speculation.
Interview for a management position
我致力于帮助公司在竞争中实现可持续增长。
I am committed to helping the company achieve sustainable growth amidst competition.
Instagram caption about fitness
与其追求快速瘦身,不如实现可持续增长的健康习惯。
Instead of chasing rapid weight loss, it's better to achieve sustainable growth in healthy habits.
Cultural Background
The phrase `实现可持续增长` gained prominence in China during the late 20th century. As the country transitioned from rapid, resource-intensive growth to a more balanced economy, the government popularized the concept of 'Sustainable Development' (可持续发展). This reflects a deep cultural shift from 'growth at any cost' to a 'Harmonious Society' (和谐社会) and 'Ecological Civilization' (生态文明). It embodies the traditional Chinese value of balance (平衡) and thinking for future generations, rather than just immediate gain.
The LinkedIn Power-Up
Use this phrase in your LinkedIn bio if you are in management or tech. It instantly makes you look like a strategic thinker who cares about longevity.
Don't over-casualize
Never use this when ordering food or buying a single shirt. You'll sound like you're reading a manifesto to a very confused waiter.
In 15 Seconds
- Steady, long-term progress that avoids burnout.
- Common in business, environment, and personal development.
- Combines achievement with sustainability and growth.
- Shows maturity and long-term vision in Chinese.
What It Means
Ever wonder why some businesses blow up on TikTok but vanish a month later? They lacked 实现可持续增长. This phrase is about finding that sweet spot of steady progress. It is not just about getting bigger or richer quickly. It is about building a foundation that supports future success. Think of it like a marathon runner. If you sprint at the start, you will collapse. If you pace yourself, you reach the finish line. In Chinese, 实现 means to achieve or realize. 可持续 means sustainable or maintainable. 增长 is simply growth. Together, they form a powerful concept of long-term stability. It carries a vibe of wisdom and foresight. People who use this phrase are looking at the big picture. They are not chasing a quick buck or a cheap thrill. They want something that lasts forever. It is a very hopeful and grounded expression. You are promising that the future will be even better than today.
How To Use It
You will find this phrase mostly in professional settings. However, it is creeping into personal development lately. You can use it as a noun phrase or a goal. Usually, it follows verbs like 致力于 (is committed to) or 追求 (to pursue). If you are writing a business plan, use this to impress investors. If you are talking about your gym routine, use it to sound smart. It functions as a complete objective for a company or person. You do not need many extra words around it. Just say you want to 实现可持续增长. It sounds much better than saying you just want to get rich. It shows you have a plan for the long haul. Using it correctly makes you sound like a visionary leader. Just do not use it to describe your growing collection of coffee mugs. That might be a bit too much drama for your kitchen.
Formality & Register
This phrase sits firmly in the formal and neutral zones. You will see it in annual reports and government speeches. It is the language of CEOs and environmentalists. But do not let that scare you away. It is perfectly fine in a serious office chat or a LinkedIn post. You probably would not text this to a friend about a party. It is a bit too "suit and tie" for casual hangouts. However, if you are discussing your career path, it fits perfectly. It signals that you are a serious professional. It shows you understand modern economic and social values. In China, this register is highly respected. It reflects the national focus on quality over mere quantity. Using it shows you are in tune with the current zeitgeist. It is like wearing a crisp white shirt to an interview. It is clean, sharp, and very effective. Plus, it makes you sound like you actually know what a balance sheet is.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a tech startup pitching on a Zoom call. The founder says they want to 实现可持续增长 to stay relevant. Or look at a WeChat article about environmental protection. It will discuss how cities must 实现可持续增长 to save the planet. You might even see it in a fitness app. The coach tells you to avoid ego-lifting to 实现可持续增长 in strength. On Netflix, business dramas use this phrase during intense boardroom scenes. It is the ultimate goal in any strategy game you play. When a company announces its yearly results, this phrase is always there. It is like the "Happily Ever After" of the corporate world. Even influencers use it when talking about their "personal brand" longevity. It is a very versatile tool for anyone with a long-term vision. Just remember, it is about the journey as much as the destination. It is the verbal equivalent of a sturdy oak tree.
When To Use It
Use this when you are talking about the future. It is great for job interviews when asked about goals. It works wonders in academic essays about the economy. Use it when discussing environmental policies or green energy. It is also perfect for a serious blog post about life habits. If you are a manager, use it to inspire your team. It shifts the focus from stressful deadlines to healthy progress. Use it when you want to sound responsible and thoughtful. It is the perfect phrase for a New Year's resolution post. It tells people you are building something meaningful. It is also a great way to justify taking a break. You cannot grow sustainably if you are totally exhausted! So, use it as an excuse to nap for the sake of "long-term results." Your boss might even believe you if you say it with enough confidence.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for short-term, trivial things. You do not 实现可持续增长 in your laundry pile. Avoid it in very casual slang-heavy conversations with best friends. It will make you sound like a robot or a textbook. Do not use it if the growth is actually harmful or unethical. Sustainability implies a positive, healthy kind of progress. If a company is destroying a forest, calling it 可持续 is just wrong. Also, do not use it for things that are meant to be fast. A 100-meter dash is not about sustainability; it is about speed. Using it there would just be confusing and weird. Keep it for things that have a life cycle and a future. Your plant? Yes. Your quick trip to the grocery store? No. Unless you plan to stay in the store for ten years. Then we might have a different conversation about your life choices.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mix up the word order or use the wrong verbs. One common error is saying 进行可持续增长. While 进行 means to carry out, it does not fit the "achievement" vibe of 实现. Another mistake is forgetting the 可 and just saying 实现持续增长. That just means "achieve continuous growth." While that is good, it misses the "sustainability" part which is crucial.
- ✗
我们要求实现继续增长→ ✓我们要实现可持续增长(Sustainable is the key here!) - ✗
实现可持续的增加→ ✓实现可持续增长(增加is more for physical numbers,增长is for development.)
Make sure you do not add too many particles. The phrase is a solid unit. Keep it together like a well-packed suitcase. If you break it up, the magic disappears. It is like trying to eat a sandwich one ingredient at a time. It just is not the same experience.
Common Variations
You might hear 保持可持续发展 (maintain sustainable development). This is very similar but focuses on the broader "development." Another one is 稳健增长 (steady and healthy growth). This is a bit more conservative and less about the environment. Some people use 高质量发展 (high-quality development) in modern Chinese politics. It is basically the cooler, younger cousin of our phrase. You might also see 长期增长 (long-term growth). This is simpler but lacks the nuance of not burning out. In tech circles, they might say 规模化增长 (scalable growth). That is more about the technical side of expanding a system. But 实现可持续增长 remains the most balanced and respected version. It covers all the bases—money, planet, and people. It is the Swiss Army knife of growth phrases. It works everywhere and always looks good.
Real Conversations
Boss
小王,你对我们明年的市场计划有什么看法? (Xiao Wang, what's your take on our market plan for next year?)Employee
我觉得我们不应该只追求短期利润。 (I think we shouldn't just chase short-term profits.)Employee
我们需要制定一个策略,来实现可持续增长。 (We need to develop a strategy to achieve sustainable growth.)Boss
说得对,稳扎稳打才是王道。 (Right, steady wins the race.)Friend A: 你最近怎么开始每天只跑三公里了?以前不是跑五公里吗? (Why are you only running 3km a day lately? Didn't you use to do 5km?)
Friend B: 我发现五公里太累了,没法坚持。 (I found 5km was too tiring; I couldn't stick to it.)
Friend B: 我现在追求的是实现可持续增长,这样我才能跑一辈子。 (Now I'm pursuing sustainable growth so I can run for a lifetime.)
Friend A: 哇,你说话越来越像我的健身教练了。 (Wow, you're sounding more and more like my fitness coach.)
Quick FAQ
Is this phrase too formal for an email? Not at all! It is perfect for a professional sign-off or a project summary. Can I use it for my personal bank account? Yes, if you are talking about your long-term investment strategy. Is it only used in business? No, it is common in environmental science and personal health too. Does it always mean environmental sustainability? Usually, it implies being eco-friendly, but in business, it mainly means financial health. Why is it B2 level? Because it requires understanding abstract concepts of economics and time. Is there a shorter version? Not really, but you can just say 可持续增长 if the context is already clear. Does it sound natural to native speakers? Absolutely, they use it all the time in news and professional discussions. It is a staple of modern Mandarin. So, go ahead and use it with pride. You will sound like a total pro.
Usage Notes
The phrase '实现可持续增长' is a high-register expression. It is most effective in business plans, formal presentations, and serious life-planning contexts. Avoid using it in casual banter as it can sound overly robotic or 'corporate' in a social setting.
The LinkedIn Power-Up
Use this phrase in your LinkedIn bio if you are in management or tech. It instantly makes you look like a strategic thinker who cares about longevity.
Don't over-casualize
Never use this when ordering food or buying a single shirt. You'll sound like you're reading a manifesto to a very confused waiter.
Balance is Key
In China, this phrase isn't just about money. It links back to the concept of 'Harmony' (和谐). True growth shouldn't upset the balance of nature or society.
The Verb Rule
Always pair it with `实现` (realize/achieve). Phrases like `做增长` (do growth) sound amateur and grammatically 'thin'.
Examples
10我们的核心目标是实现可持续增长,而不是短期投机。
Our core goal is to achieve sustainable growth, not short-term speculation.
Contrasts long-term vision with risky short-term moves.
我致力于帮助公司在竞争中实现可持续增长。
I am committed to helping the company achieve sustainable growth amidst competition.
Shows leadership and strategic thinking.
与其追求快速瘦身,不如实现可持续增长的健康习惯。
Instead of chasing rapid weight loss, it's better to achieve sustainable growth in healthy habits.
Applies a business term to personal health naturally.
城市规划必须考虑如何实现可持续增长以保护环境。
Urban planning must consider how to achieve sustainable growth to protect the environment.
Standard usage in ecological and urban contexts.
这个新项目将为我们的业务实现可持续增长打下基础。
This new project will lay the foundation for our business to achieve sustainable growth.
Perfect for professional social media platforms.
我的想法是先慢一点,实现可持续增长,别还没火就倒闭了。
My idea is to go slow first and achieve sustainable growth, so we don't go bust before we get big.
Casual usage with a hint of humor.
✗ 公司需要实现可以继续的增长 → ✓ 公司需要实现可持续增长
✗ The company needs to achieve growth that can continue → ✓ The company needs to achieve sustainable growth
Learners often try to translate 'sustainable' word-for-word into 'can continue'.
✗ 我们正在做可持续增长 → ✓ 我们正在实现可持续增长
✗ We are doing sustainable growth → ✓ We are achieving sustainable growth
Don't use '做' (to do) with this abstract goal; '实现' is the proper verb.
老板总说要实现可持续增长,我觉得他是想让我可持续加班。
The boss always says we need to achieve sustainable growth, but I think he just wants me to do sustainable overtime.
A witty play on the word 'sustainable'.
我们的商业模式旨在通过技术创新实现可持续增长。
Our business model aims to achieve sustainable growth through technological innovation.
Standard phrase in a pitch deck.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank to complete the business goal.
In Chinese, you 'realize' or 'achieve' (实现) a goal like sustainable growth.
Find and fix the error in the sentence about economic policy.
While '可继续' means 'can continue', the formal economic term for 'sustainable' is '可持续'.
Translate this sentence into Chinese.
This is a direct mapping of the three key components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Where to use '实现可持续增长'
Talking about a hobby or small habit.
我的阅读习惯需要实现可持续增长。
Discussing career or personal finance.
我想在职业生涯中实现可持续增长。
Business reports and official speeches.
公司旨在实现可持续增长。
Government policy and international treaties.
国家必须实现经济的可持续增长。
Types of Growth
Usage Scenarios
Business
- • Annual Reports
- • Pitch Decks
- • Market Strategy
Environment
- • Green Energy
- • Carbon Neutrality
- • Urban Planning
Self-Help
- • Habit Building
- • Mental Health
- • Financial Literacy
Practice Bank
3 exercises为了保护环境,我们必须___可持续增长。
In Chinese, you 'realize' or 'achieve' (实现) a goal like sustainable growth.
Find and fix the mistake:
政府致力于实现可继续增长的经济。
While '可继续' means 'can continue', the formal economic term for 'sustainable' is '可持续'.
Achieve sustainable growth.
Hints: Achieve: 实现, Sustainable: 可持续, Growth: 增长
This is a direct mapping of the three key components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsNot at all, even a small freelance business or a personal blog can use this term to describe their growth strategy. It simply means you are planning to grow in a way that is stable and long-term rather than crashing quickly. Many modern individuals use it to describe their own career advancement goals.
'可持续增长' (Sustainable Growth) specifically focuses on the increase of something, like revenue, users, or skills. '可持续发展' (Sustainable Development) is a much broader term that covers social, environmental, and economic progress as a whole. You would use '增长' for specific metrics and '发展' for overall systems or nations.
Yes, it is actually becoming quite popular in health circles to describe a workout plan that avoids injury. It implies that you are increasing your strength or stamina at a pace that your body can handle for years to come. It sounds more professional and thoughtful than just saying you want to get big muscles fast.
It is perfectly fine if you are discussing a project or a work-related goal in a serious way. However, if you are just chatting about lunch, it would be too formal and might seem like you are trying too hard. Use it when the topic of conversation has a bit of weight or relates to future planning.
The verb '实现' means to realize or bring something into reality, which perfectly fits the idea of reaching a complex goal. In Chinese grammar, abstract targets like growth or dreams are almost always 'realized' (实现) rather than 'finished' or 'done'. It adds a sense of accomplishment and formality to the statement.
While the word '可持续' (sustainable) originated in environmental science, in a business context, it often refers to financial sustainability. It means the company is making enough profit to continue operating without needing constant outside help or burning through cash. However, modern businesses usually try to imply both financial and environmental health when using it.
You can, but native speakers usually drop the '的' to make it a more compact and formal noun phrase. '实现可持续增长' sounds much more like a set term you would see in a newspaper or a textbook. Adding '的' makes it sound slightly more descriptive and less like a professional title or objective.
This is typically considered a B2 (Upper Intermediate) phrase because it involves abstract economic and social concepts. You need to understand how formal verbs like '实现' interact with compound adjectives like '可持续'. However, once you learn it, it is very easy to plug into various professional sentences.
If you want to be casual, you might say '稳步提高' (steady improvement) or '慢慢变好' (slowly getting better). These phrases lack the specific 'sustainability' nuance but convey a similar feeling of not rushing things. '实现可持续增长' remains the best choice if you want to sound smart and forward-thinking.
It is very common on platforms like LinkedIn (Maimai in China) or in the business sections of WeChat and Zhihu. You won't see it much in the comments of a funny cat video on Douyin, but you will see it in any video discussing the future of tech or the economy. It is a 'high-value' phrase for serious content creators.
Absolutely, it's a great way to describe an investment plan that focuses on long-term compound interest rather than day-trading. It signals that you are being responsible and looking at your financial health over several decades. It's the kind of phrase a financial advisor would love to hear from you.
It does have a bit of an official flavor because the Chinese government uses it frequently in policy documents. However, this 'flavor' actually makes it more credible and professional when used in business. It shows that you are educated and familiar with the standard terminology used in high-level discussions.
The opposite would be '爆发式增长' (explosive growth) or '短期投机' (short-term speculation). These terms describe growth that is very fast but usually cannot be maintained for a long time. They are often seen as the 'dangerous' alternatives to the safe and steady path of sustainable growth.
Yes, a team leader might say '我们的目标是实现团队能力的可持续增长'. This means the team should keep getting better without getting burnt out or losing members. it is a very encouraging way to set goals that prioritize the well-being of the team members alongside their performance.
While '实现' is the most common, you can also use '追求' (pursue), '致力于' (be committed to), or '保持' (maintain). For example, '保持可持续增长' means you have already reached that state and want to keep it going. '实现' is specifically for the act of reaching that goal for the first time.
In this phrase, '增长' (growth) usually refers to measurable things like money, size, or quantity. If you want to talk about qualities or skills, you might use '发展' (development) or '提升' (elevation) instead. However, in business, '增长' is the most common term used for overall success metrics.
Yes, the terminology is virtually identical in all Mandarin-speaking regions, though the characters might be written in Traditional Chinese as '實現可持續增長'. The concept of sustainability is a global one, and the Chinese translation has become standardized across the world. You will be understood everywhere.
The most common mistake is forgetting the middle part '持续' and just saying '实现可增长'. That sounds like 'achieving grow-able growth', which makes no sense. You must include the '持续' (continuous/sustained) part to give the phrase its meaning of longevity and health. Without it, the phrase collapses.
It is an excellent choice for academic writing in fields like economics, sociology, or environmental science. It is formal, precise, and widely recognized by scholars. Just make sure you define what kind of growth you are talking about—whether it is GDP, population, or industrial output—to remain specific.
It sounds very impressive when a learner uses it because it shows they have moved beyond basic survival Chinese. It indicates that you can handle abstract discussions and professional concepts. As long as you use it in the right context (like a meeting or a serious talk), it will make you sound very fluent.
Related Phrases
可持续发展
related topicSustainable development
This is the broader concept that includes growth, environmental health, and social equity.
稳步增长
synonymSteady growth
It conveys a similar sense of moving forward carefully without rushing too fast.
爆发式增长
antonymExplosive growth
This represents the opposite style—extremely fast but often impossible to maintain long-term.
高质量发展
related topicHigh-quality development
A modern political term in China that prioritizes the value of growth over the mere speed of it.
长期主义
related topicLong-termism
The underlying philosophy that drives the desire for sustainable rather than temporary growth.