务求取得实效
wuqiu qude shixiao
Strive for practical results
Literally: Must strive to obtain practical effectiveness
In 15 Seconds
- Focus on real, tangible results over appearances.
- Used in highly professional and formal contexts.
- Signals a commitment to substance and impact.
- Common in government, business, and academic settings.
Meaning
This phrase describes a 'no-nonsense' commitment to achieving tangible, measurable results rather than just going through the motions. It signals a move away from superficial appearances or 'face projects' toward substance and actual impact.
Key Examples
3 of 11In a corporate board meeting
我们的新战略不能停留在纸面上,必须务求取得实效。
Our new strategy must not stay on paper; we must strive for practical results.
Government official giving a speech
政府将加大投入,在环境治理方面务求取得实效。
The government will increase investment and strive for practical results in environmental governance.
Discussing a serious study plan
每天背单词不能只是走形式,要务求取得实效。
Memorizing words every day shouldn't just be a formality; you must strive for real results.
Cultural Background
The phrase `务求取得实效` is deeply rooted in the Chinese political and social value of 'Pragmatism' (实事求是). Since the reform era, there has been a significant cultural push to move away from 'Formalism' (形式主义)—the practice of doing things just for the sake of bureaucracy or appearance. This phrase exists as a linguistic tool to hold people accountable to the actual substance of their work. It reflects a societal shift toward measurable progress and the idea that 'empty talk harms the nation, while hard work makes it flourish.'
The 'Manager' Hack
Using this in a performance review makes you sound like leadership material. It shows you prioritize the company's bottom line over just checking boxes.
The Birthday Blunder
Never use this in a birthday card or wedding toast. It's too robotic and cold. You want to celebrate the person, not evaluate their efficiency.
In 15 Seconds
- Focus on real, tangible results over appearances.
- Used in highly professional and formal contexts.
- Signals a commitment to substance and impact.
- Common in government, business, and academic settings.
What It Means
Ever had a project that was all talk and no action? 务求取得实效 is the perfect antidote to that empty feeling. It means you aren't just doing things for show or following a script. You want to see actual, measurable results that change the real world. It’s about cutting through the fluff, the red tape, and the nonsense. Think of it as the 'no-BS' approach to professional and personal life. In Chinese, 务 means 'must' or 'to devote effort.' 求 means 'to seek' or 'strive for.' 取得 simply means 'to obtain.' 实效 is the star of the show: 'practical results.' When you put them together, you’re making a serious promise. You’re saying, 'I’m going to make this count.' It carries a heavy, professional weight. It’s the difference between talking about the gym and actually lifting the weights. If you're just taking selfies at the gym, that's not 务求取得实效. If you're hitting your targets and feeling stronger, you are definitely achieving 实效. People use this when they are sick of empty talk and want substance. It’s a very grounded, serious, and determined vibe.
How To Use It
You’ll usually see this phrase at the end of a sentence or as a directive. It functions as a goal or a standard for a specific action. You might say, 'In our work, we must 务求取得实效.' It often follows verbs like 工作 (work), 学习 (study), or 实施 (implement). You can also use it as a standalone principle for a project. For example, if you are designing a new app, your slogan could be 务求取得实效. This tells everyone that you don't care about flashy icons if the app crashes. It’s like telling your team, 'Don't just show up; make an impact.' Grammatically, it acts like a verb phrase. You can also add 地 after it to turn it into an adverb, though that's less common. Mostly, it stands as the 'big goal' at the end of a plan. Just remember, it’s not for small things like making toast. Unless, of course, your toast-making is a multi-million dollar business venture. Then, by all means, strive for that practical toast effectiveness.
Formality & Register
This phrase is strictly in the formal and professional camp. You’ll hear it in government speeches, corporate boardrooms, and serious academic settings. It is definitely not something you’d yell at a football game or whisper in a bar. If you used this during a casual dinner with friends, they might think you’ve been reading too many CEO biographies. It has a 'top-down' feel to it. It’s the language of leaders, managers, and people who have a lot of responsibility. On the formality scale, it’s about an 8 out of 10. It’s respectful but very firm. Using it shows that you are serious, disciplined, and focused on the bottom line. It’s the kind of phrase that makes people sit up a little straighter in their chairs. Don't use it in a DM to your crush unless you want them to think you're interviewing them for a government position. 'Our date must 务求取得实效' is a great way to stay single forever. Stick to work, study, and high-level planning for this one.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a Zoom meeting that has been going on for two hours. Everyone is just talking in circles about 'synergy' and 'moving the needle.' You chime in and say, 'We need to stop the talk and 务求取得实效.' Suddenly, everyone stops and looks at their notes. You’ve just grounded the conversation. Or think about a TikTok creator who spends $5000 on gear but doesn't have a script. A mentor might tell them, 'Stop buying lights and 务求取得实效 (focus on the content).' In a job interview, you could say, 'In my previous role, I didn't just follow procedures; I always 务求取得实效.' This tells the recruiter you are a high-value employee who cares about results. You might also see it in news headlines about government policies. If the government launches a new environmental plan, the headline might say they will 务求取得实效 to ensure the air gets cleaner. It’s a promise of accountability. It's the ultimate 'walk the talk' phrase for the modern professional world.
When To Use It
Use this phrase when you are setting goals for a major project. It’s perfect for a mission statement or a project proposal. If you are writing a formal email to your professor about your research, this phrase fits perfectly. Use it when you want to emphasize that you aren't just doing the bare minimum. It’s great for performance reviews when you want to show your boss you are results-oriented. Use it when you are discussing social issues and want to move toward solutions. It’s also appropriate when you are giving a serious speech at a graduation or a company anniversary. Basically, anytime you want to signal 'substance over style,' reach for this phrase. It’s also a good way to call out a lack of progress in a polite, professional way. Instead of saying 'you guys are wasting time,' say 'we must 务求取得实效.' It sounds much more professional and keeps the peace. Plus, it makes you sound like you have a very expensive suit, even if you’re wearing pajama bottoms on camera.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this in very casual, intimate, or silly situations. Don't use it when talking about hobbies that are just for fun. If you're playing video games with friends, saying you must 务求取得实效 will make you the least popular person in the party chat. It’s also too heavy for simple daily chores. 'I will 务求取得实效 in cleaning this dish' sounds like you're about to write a white paper on soap. Don't use it when someone is sharing their feelings or being emotional. It’s a cold, practical phrase. If a friend is crying about a breakup, do not tell them to 务求取得实效. That is a one-way ticket to losing a friend. Also, avoid it in marketing that is supposed to be 'cool' or 'edgy.' It’s too 'establishment' for a streetwear brand. It’s for the adults in the room, not the kids at the skatepark. If you’re at a party and someone asks what you’re doing this weekend, don’t say you’re going to 务求取得实效 on your laundry. Just say you're doing laundry.
Common Mistakes
One big mistake is mixing up the order of the words. Some learners might try to say 实效务求取得, which sounds like a broken robot. Another mistake is using it as a simple noun. You can't really say 'I have a 务求取得实效.' It’s an action-oriented phrase, not a thing you own. A very common error is using it in a way that’s too casual. ✗ 今天我们去超市,务求取得实效 (Today we go to the supermarket, striving for practical results) → ✓ 我们去超市要有效率 (We need to be efficient at the supermarket). The first one is way too formal for buying milk. Another one is ✗ 他的务求取得实效很好 (His striving for results is good) → ✓ 他工作务求取得实效 (He strives for practical results in his work). Remember, this phrase describes *how* you do something. It isn't a personality trait like 'kindness' or 'bravery.' It’s a methodology. Treat it with the respect its formality deserves!
Common Variations
While 务求取得实效 is the full, formal version, you might see shorter versions in different contexts. 讲求实效 (jiǎngqiú shíxiào) is a very common cousin. It means 'to emphasize practical results.' It’s slightly less 'must-do' and more 'this is our philosophy.' You might also see 务求实效 (wùqiú shíxiào), which drops the 'obtain' part but keeps the same meaning. It’s a bit punchier. In casual business slang, people might just say 看结果 (kàn jiéguǒ) which means 'look at the results.' But 务求取得实效 is the 'gold standard' for formal documents. You might also hear 见实效 (jiàn shíxiào), which means 'to see practical results.' This is usually used when the work is already done. For example, 'Our new policy is starting to 见实效.' It’s like the 'before and after' of the phrase. If you 务求 (strive for) it properly, you will eventually 见 (see) it. It’s a nice little lifecycle of productivity.
Real Conversations
Manager
Team Lead: 明白,张经理。我们一定会深入基层,务求取得实效。
Manager
Team Lead: 没错。我们已经制定了详细的量化指标,确保每一分钱都花在刀刃上。
Manager
Team Lead: 没问题,我们一定会用实效说话。
Quick FAQ
Is this phrase common in daily life? Not really. You won't hear it at the breakfast table. You'll hear it in news broadcasts, corporate meetings, and government announcements. It’s part of the 'professional' vocabulary. Should I use it in an email to a friend? Only if you are being sarcastic or joking about a project you're working on together. Otherwise, it will sound very stiff. Is it similar to 'Efficiency'? Not quite. Efficiency is about speed and resources. 实效 is about the *outcome* and its impact. You can be efficient but still not achieve 实效 if what you produced is useless. Does it have a political connotation? In China, it is often associated with government work styles and the push against 'formalism.' It’s a very positive, pro-active political and social term. Can I use it for my studies? Yes! If you are writing a study plan, saying you will 务求取得实效 shows you are serious about actually learning, not just staring at books.
Usage Notes
This phrase is most appropriate for formal and professional contexts like business meetings, government reports, or academic planning. It is generally too heavy for casual conversation and should be avoided in intimate or silly settings unless for sarcastic effect. Its focus is strictly on the 'outcome' and its real-world utility.
The 'Manager' Hack
Using this in a performance review makes you sound like leadership material. It shows you prioritize the company's bottom line over just checking boxes.
The Birthday Blunder
Never use this in a birthday card or wedding toast. It's too robotic and cold. You want to celebrate the person, not evaluate their efficiency.
Combating 'Face' culture
This phrase is the linguistic weapon used to fight 'Mianzi' (Face) culture in professional settings. It prioritizes the 'Lizi' (Substance) of an achievement.
Pair it with Contrast
For maximum impact, contrast it with '走过场' (going through motions). E.g., 'We shouldn't zǒu guòchǎng, we must wùqiú qǔdé shíxiào.'
Examples
11我们的新战略不能停留在纸面上,必须务求取得实效。
Our new strategy must not stay on paper; we must strive for practical results.
Here it emphasizes that planning is useless without execution.
政府将加大投入,在环境治理方面务求取得实效。
The government will increase investment and strive for practical results in environmental governance.
Used to promise accountability to the public.
每天背单词不能只是走形式,要务求取得实效。
Memorizing words every day shouldn't just be a formality; you must strive for real results.
Encouraging a student to focus on actual retention.
健身打卡不是为了炫耀,而是为了务求取得实效,练出好身材。
Checking in at the gym isn't for showing off; it's to strive for real results and build a good body.
A slightly formal phrase used for contrast on social media.
这个方案我们再磨合一下,务求取得实效。
Let's refine this plan a bit more to ensure we get practical results.
Shows high standards in a collaborative work setting.
我们的产品设计务求取得实效,解决用户的核心痛点。
Our product design strives for practical results to solve users' core pain points.
Pitching the utility and necessity of a product.
这次志愿者活动,我们要走进每家每户,务求取得实效。
For this volunteer activity, we need to visit every household and strive for real impact.
Emphasizing the need for thoroughness in service.
✗ 我们实效务求取得提高产量。 → ✓ 我们务求取得实效,提高产量。
✗ We results strive to obtain increase production. → ✓ We strive for practical results to increase production.
The phrase must be kept together as a unit.
✗ 我今天洗衣服务求取得实效。 → ✓ 我今天把衣服洗得很干净。
✗ I strive for practical results in washing clothes today. → ✓ I washed the clothes very clean today.
It's too heavy for simple chores like laundry.
我的减肥计划总是“雷声大雨点小”,从来没能务求取得实效。
My weight loss plans are always 'much talk but little action,' never managing to get real results.
Using the formal phrase to mock one's own lack of discipline.
那一年的支教经历,让我明白了什么是真正的务求取得实效。
That year of teaching support made me understand what it truly means to strive for real impact.
A deep, reflective usage of the phrase.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
Learning Chinese isn't just about speed; you must strive for actual results (retention/usage).
Which sentence uses the phrase in the correct professional context?
This phrase is most appropriate for formal business or policy implementation.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The components of the set phrase must follow the order: 务求 (strive) + 取得 (obtain) + 实效 (practical results).
Put the words in the correct order.
In Chinese, the subject (We) comes first, followed by the auxiliary (must), the prepositional phrase (in research), and finally the verb phrase (strive for results).
Translate this sentence into Chinese using the target phrase.
This is a classic context for this formal expression.
Match the Chinese phrase with its nuanced English equivalent.
Understanding these contrasts helps master the professional register.
Choose the missing part of the phrase.
'实效' (shíxiào) means practical effectiveness, which is the standard ending for this phrase.
Which of these is a synonym for '实效' in this context?
'实际效果' (shíjì xiàoguǒ) means practical effect/result.
Is the following sentence natural? If not, fix it.
Using such a heavy, formal phrase for eating breakfast is unnatural unless used for humor.
Reorder: [这个项目][需要][我们][务求取得实效]
This follows the standard S-V-O-Goal structure.
Translate: 'Don't just talk; we must achieve real results.'
Contrast between empty talk and '实效' is a common rhetorical device.
Match the antonyms.
These antonyms help define the boundary of the phrase's meaning.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Results' Phrases
Talking with friends about tasks
看结果 (Kàn jiéguǒ)
Standard work environment
讲求效率 (Jiǎngqiú xiàolǜ)
Official company policy
注重实绩 (Zhùzhòng shíjì)
Government/High-level mandate
务求取得实效 (Wùqiú qǔdé shíxiào)
When to Use 务求取得实效
Annual Review
My goals for 2024...
Gov Speech
Addressing poverty...
Startup Pitch
Solving user issues...
Study Plan
Actually learning HSK...
Eco-projects
Cleaning the river...
Action vs. Appearance
Usage Domains
Governance
- • Law enforcement
- • Public health
- • Education reform
Business
- • Cost control
- • Customer satisfaction
- • Market expansion
Personal Growth
- • Skill acquisition
- • Fitness goals
- • Financial planning
Practice Bank
12 exercises学习汉语不能只看进度,要 ___ 。
Learning Chinese isn't just about speed; you must strive for actual results (retention/usage).
This phrase is most appropriate for formal business or policy implementation.
Find and fix the mistake:
我们的工作必须要实效取得务求。
The components of the set phrase must follow the order: 务求 (strive) + 取得 (obtain) + 实效 (practical results).
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
In Chinese, the subject (We) comes first, followed by the auxiliary (must), the prepositional phrase (in research), and finally the verb phrase (strive for results).
The government's poverty alleviation work must strive for practical results.
Hints: Poverty alleviation: 扶贫, Strive for practical results: 务求取得实效
This is a classic context for this formal expression.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Understanding these contrasts helps master the professional register.
我们要务求取得 ___ 。
'实效' (shíxiào) means practical effectiveness, which is the standard ending for this phrase.
'实际效果' (shíjì xiàoguǒ) means practical effect/result.
Find and fix the mistake:
我吃早饭务求取得实效。
Using such a heavy, formal phrase for eating breakfast is unnatural unless used for humor.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This follows the standard S-V-O-Goal structure.
Don't just talk; we must achieve real results.
Hints: Empty talk: 空话
Contrast between empty talk and '实效' is a common rhetorical device.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These antonyms help define the boundary of the phrase's meaning.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsYes, it generally is. Unless you are texting a group of colleagues about a serious project deadline, it will come across as very stiff and unnatural. For daily texting, you should use simpler terms like '搞定' (get it done) or '要看结果' (need to see results) instead.
Absolutely! In fact, this is exactly the kind of high-level vocabulary that examiners love to see in formal writing. It shows that you understand the professional register of Chinese and can discuss serious topics like policy, education, or corporate strategy with the appropriate tone.
This is a great question. '效率' (xiàolǜ) is efficiency—how fast you do something with the least resources. '实效' (shíxiào) is the practical result or impact of that action. You can be very efficient at doing a useless task, but you would have zero '实效' because the result doesn't matter.
While it is frequently used in government documents and speeches, it's better described as 'official discourse.' It's a standard part of the language used to emphasize accountability and performance in the public sector, and it's also widely used in large corporations and academic institutions.
You can, but it usually implies a very serious, disciplined approach. If you are writing a blog post about how you finally stopped making excuses and started training properly, it works well. However, just telling a friend you want 'practical results' from your jog might sound a bit intense.
The character '务' (wù) is a formal way to say 'must' or 'to devote yourself to.' In this phrase, it acts as a strong modal verb that emphasizes the importance and necessity of the action. It's much stronger than '想' (xiǎng, want) or '要' (yào, will).
Yes, there are several more casual ways. You could say '我们要看到效果' (Wǒmen yào kàndào xiàoguǒ, we want to see the effect) or '别光说,要做实事' (Bié guāng shuō, yào zuò shíshì, don't just talk, do real work). These are much better for daily life.
Only if your dog is failing its 'catching mice' KPIs! Otherwise, it's far too heavy and serious for a pet. You'd be better off with '听话' (tīnghuà, listen/obey) or '乖' (guāi, good/well-behaved).
The pronunciation is 'wùqiú qǔdé shíxiào.' Be careful with the tones: 4-2-3-2-2-4. 'Wù' is a falling tone, 'qiú' is rising, 'qǔ' is dipping, 'dé' is rising, 'shí' is rising, and 'xiào' is a sharp falling tone.
While it is understood, it is most common in mainland China where it is a hallmark of the official work style. In Taiwan or Hong Kong, you're more likely to hear '求取實效' or '務求實績,' although the meaning remains identical.
If you say '务求实效' (wùqiú shíxiào), people will still understand you perfectly. It's a common and acceptable shorter version of the phrase. However, in formal documents, the full version '务求取得实效' is usually preferred for its balance and formal rhythm.
Yes, it is a very professional and respectful phrase to use in academic correspondence. If you are describing the goals of your research or your study plan, it will show that you take your work seriously and are focused on the actual impact of your studies.
It is most often used toward the end of a sentence as a goal or standard. For example, '我们要深入开展工作,务求取得实效.' However, it can also be used as a directive: '在工作中,务求取得实效是我们的首要目标.'
Yes, like many formal phrases, it can be used for humor or sarcasm. For example, if a friend spends two hours meticulously cleaning a single spoon, you could say '你洗个勺子也要务求取得实效啊?' (Are you striving for practical results in washing a spoon?).
The most direct opposite is '走形式' (zǒu xíngshì) or '走过场' (zǒu guòchǎng), which means to go through the motions without caring about the result. Another common opposite is '华而不实' (huá ér bù shí), which means something is flashy but lacks substance.
They are close, but '成果' (chéngguǒ) usually refers to the final product or achievement, while '实效' (shíxiào) refers to the practical effectiveness and impact of that product. A research paper is a '成果,' but its '实效' is whether it actually solves a problem.
It's not very common to use it for art or entertainment. However, you could use it for an educational book or a documentary. For example, '这本教材的编写务求取得实效' means the book was written to be truly useful for students.
It is a central part of the 'pragmatic' approach to governance and development that has defined China's growth over the last few decades. It is a linguistic countermeasure to bureaucracy and a constant reminder to focus on the actual well-being and progress of society.
Related Phrases
讲求实效
synonymEmphasize practical results
This is a slightly softer synonym used when describing a general philosophy rather than a mandatory directive.
走过场
antonymGo through the motions
This phrase describes the superficial behavior that '务求取得实效' is explicitly meant to prevent.
求真务实
related topicSeeking truth and being pragmatic
This is a broader idiom that shares the same root values of pragmatism and substance over appearance.
见实效
related topicSee practical results
This is the outcome phase of the process; you strive for results so that you can eventually see them.
雷声大雨点小
antonymMuch talk but little action
This colorful idiom describes the exact opposite of achieving '实效'—lots of noise but no results.
脚踏实地
related topicDown-to-earth; grounded
A grounded person or approach is exactly what is needed to achieve practical, real-world results.