Being content with what you have is the key to lasting happiness.
Word in 30 Seconds
- To be content with what one currently has.
- A positive mindset focusing on gratitude rather than greed.
- Often associated with the pursuit of long-term happiness.
Overview
- 1概述：知足源自成语“知足常乐”，意为知道满足，就永远快乐。在现代汉语中，它是一个褒义词，用来形容一个人心态平和，不被过度的欲望驱使。2) 用法：知足既可以做谓语，也可以用作定语或状语。常出现在劝导他人或表达个人志向的语境中。3) 常见语境：在职场中，它可能指不盲目追求高薪；在生活中，它指珍惜当下的幸福；在哲学层面，它被视为一种修身养性的境界。4) 近义词辨析：与“满足”相比，“知足”更侧重于主观心态的调节，而“满足”更多指客观条件达到了需求。与“知足”相对的是“贪婪”或“不知足”。
Examples
他是一个知足的人，从不抱怨生活。
everydayHe is a person who is content with his lot and never complains about life.
知足者常乐，这是千古不变的真理。
formalHe who is contented is happy; this is an eternal truth.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
知足者常乐
Contentment brings happiness.
Often Confused With
Refers to the satisfaction of specific needs or requirements. It is more objective than the subjective state of '知足'.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Use '知足' when discussing life philosophy or personal character. It is generally positive but can sound defensive if used to justify laziness. It is most commonly used in reflective or advisory contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use '知足' as a direct translation for 'enough' (the quantity). Remember that '知足' describes the person's attitude, not the amount of something.
Tips
Use with '常乐' for emphasis
Pairing '知足' with '常乐' creates a common four-character idiom. It adds a philosophical tone to your speech.
Avoid using it in professional ambition
Be careful when using '知足' in a job interview. It might be misinterpreted as a lack of motivation or desire to grow.
Taoist influence on the concept
The concept is deeply rooted in Taoist philosophy. It emphasizes harmony with nature and avoiding excessive desire.
Word Origin
Derived from the Tao Te Ching, where Laozi emphasizes that those who know they have enough are rich. It reflects the ancient Chinese value of moderation.
Cultural Context
The concept is central to Chinese traditional morality, advocating for balance and against the 'poison' of greed. It is a cornerstone of the Chinese approach to mental well-being.
Memory Tip
Think of the character '足' as a foot; 'knowing your foot' means knowing when to stop walking and rest. This visual helps associate the word with stopping at a point of satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions“满足”通常指需求得到了填补，是客观结果；“知足”则是一种主观的心理状态，强调即使条件有限也能自我调节。
在现代语境下，它通常被视为一种积极的心理调节能力，而非不思进取。它鼓励人们在努力的同时，也要学会欣赏当下的成果。
你可以说“人要学会知足，才能过得快乐”。这表达了通过调节心态来获取幸福的逻辑。
最直接的反义词是“贪婪”或“不知足”。
Test Yourself
一个人如果总是贪得无厌，就很难体会到___的快乐。
知足常乐是固定搭配，符合语境。
Score: /1
Summary
Being content with what you have is the key to lasting happiness.
- To be content with what one currently has.
- A positive mindset focusing on gratitude rather than greed.
- Often associated with the pursuit of long-term happiness.
Use with '常乐' for emphasis
Pairing '知足' with '常乐' creates a common four-character idiom. It adds a philosophical tone to your speech.
Avoid using it in professional ambition
Be careful when using '知足' in a job interview. It might be misinterpreted as a lack of motivation or desire to grow.
Taoist influence on the concept
The concept is deeply rooted in Taoist philosophy. It emphasizes harmony with nature and avoiding excessive desire.
Examples
2 of 2他是一个知足的人，从不抱怨生活。
He is a person who is content with his lot and never complains about life.
知足者常乐，这是千古不变的真理。
He who is contented is happy; this is an eternal truth.
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