绩效 in 30 Seconds
- 绩效 (jīxiào) means work performance results or efficiency, evaluated against standards.
- Used in professional and academic contexts for performance evaluation and management.
- Key term for assessing employees, projects, and organizational effectiveness.
- Often linked to bonuses, promotions, and improvement strategies.
- Core Meaning
- The term '绩效' (jīxiào) fundamentally refers to the results, achievements, or efficiency of work or a task. It's about how well someone or something has performed, typically measured against set goals or standards. Think of it as the tangible outcomes and the effectiveness with which those outcomes were achieved.
- Contexts of Use
- This word is most frequently encountered in professional and academic settings, particularly in discussions related to management, human resources, and performance evaluation. Companies use '绩效' to assess employees, departments, and even their own overall effectiveness. In education, it can refer to a student's academic performance or a project's outcome. Beyond the workplace, it can also be used to evaluate the success of a project, a campaign, or any endeavor where results are important.
- Nuances
- While '绩效' emphasizes results, it often implies a qualitative assessment as well. It's not just about *what* was achieved, but also *how* it was achieved – efficiently, effectively, and in line with expectations. The concept is closely tied to accountability and improvement. For instance, a low '绩效' might trigger a review of processes or provide opportunities for training and development.
- Example Scenarios
- Imagine a sales team. Their '绩效' would be measured by the total sales revenue generated, the number of new clients acquired, and perhaps customer satisfaction ratings. In a software development project, '绩效' could refer to the timely completion of features, the number of bugs found and fixed, and the overall quality of the code. A manager might discuss an employee's annual '绩效' during a performance review, outlining areas of strength and areas for improvement based on their work outcomes.
The company is focused on improving employee 绩效.
We need to set clear goals to measure project 绩效.
Her outstanding academic 绩效 earned her a scholarship.
- Basic Structures
- The most straightforward way to use '绩效' is as a noun, often preceded by a possessive pronoun or an adjective indicating a type of performance. For example, '我的绩效' (my performance), '公司绩效' (company performance), or '个人绩效' (individual performance). It can also be the object of verbs like '评估' (evaluate), '提高' (improve), '衡量' (measure), or '讨论' (discuss).
- Focusing on Evaluation
- Sentences often revolve around the assessment of '绩效'. You might hear phrases like '对...的绩效进行评估' (to evaluate the performance of...), '根据绩效来决定' (to decide based on performance), or '绩效考核' (performance appraisal). This highlights the practical application of the term in management.
- Discussing Improvement and Goals
- Another common usage involves aiming for better results. Sentences might include '如何提高部门绩效' (how to improve departmental performance), '设定绩效目标' (set performance goals), or '绩效不佳' (poor performance). This shows that '绩效' is not just about current results but also about future aspirations.
- Connecting to Rewards
- In many professional contexts, '绩效' is directly linked to incentives. You'll find sentences such as '奖金与绩效挂钩' (bonuses are linked to performance), '绩效奖金' (performance bonus), or '根据个人绩效发放奖金' (distribute bonuses based on individual performance). This emphasizes the motivational aspect of performance evaluation.
- Academic and Project Contexts
- Beyond the corporate world, '绩效' appears in discussions about projects and studies. For instance, '这个项目的绩效如何？' (How is the performance of this project?), '我们需要分析项目的最终绩效' (We need to analyze the final performance of the project), or '研究的绩效表现' (the performance of the research). This broadens its applicability to various fields.
The manager will review each employee's annual 绩效.
We are implementing a new system to measure team 绩效.
Clear objectives are essential for good 绩效.
- Corporate Boardrooms
- In board meetings, executives discuss company-wide '绩效' to gauge the success of strategic initiatives, market performance, and overall financial health. They might analyze sales '绩效', operational '绩效', or marketing campaign '绩效'.
- Human Resources Departments
- HR professionals are constant users of '绩效'. They design performance appraisal systems, conduct employee reviews, and link '绩效' to promotions, salary increases, and bonuses. Discussions about '绩效' are central to talent management.
- Team Meetings
- Team leaders and members often discuss project '绩效'. This could involve reviewing progress against deadlines, the quality of deliverables, and the overall effectiveness of the team's efforts. Phrases like '我们的团队绩效很好' (our team performance is very good) or '需要改进项目绩效' (need to improve project performance) are common.
- Academic Seminars and Lectures
- In business schools or management courses, professors and students frequently use '绩效' when discussing management theories, case studies, and research findings. Topics like '绩效管理' (performance management) and '组织绩效' (organizational performance) are standard.
- Performance Review Conversations
- During annual or semi-annual performance reviews, managers and employees directly discuss individual '绩效'. This conversation typically involves reviewing accomplishments, identifying areas for development, and setting future goals based on past '绩效'.
- News and Business Publications
- Articles in business journals, newspapers, and online publications often use '绩效' when reporting on company results, economic trends, or industry benchmarks. You'll see headlines about '公司绩效增长' (company performance growth) or '国家经济绩效' (national economic performance).
The report detailed the company's annual 绩效.
HR is revising the criteria for 绩效 evaluation.
We need to set ambitious 绩效 goals for next quarter.
- Confusing with Similar Concepts
- Learners might confuse '绩效' with words like '成绩' (chéngjì - achievement, grade, result) or '表现' (biǎoxiàn - performance, behavior). While related, '绩效' specifically refers to the *evaluation* or *outcome* of work or tasks, especially in a professional or systematic context. '成绩' is more general for results, especially academic ones, and '表现' can refer to observable actions or overall conduct, not just quantifiable work outcomes.
- Overuse in Casual Settings
- Using '绩效' in very casual conversations about everyday tasks might sound overly formal or business-like. For instance, asking about the '绩效' of making breakfast would be unusual. In such informal contexts, simpler terms like '做得怎么样' (how did it go?) or '结果如何' (what was the result?) are more appropriate.
- Incorrect Grammatical Usage
- Mistakes can occur when trying to form compound words or phrases. For example, incorrectly attaching it to verbs without proper grammatical structure. It's important to remember that '绩效' is primarily a noun. When using verbs like 'evaluate' or 'improve', it typically follows structures like '评估绩效' (evaluate performance) or '提高绩效' (improve performance).
- Ignoring the Evaluation Aspect
- Sometimes, learners might use '绩效' simply to mean 'result' without considering the implied evaluation against a standard or goal. '绩效' often carries the weight of judgment or assessment. If you're just talking about a simple outcome without any form of measurement or comparison, another word might be more fitting.
- Mispronunciation
- The tones in 'jīxiào' are crucial. Mispronouncing the tones (e.g., jīxiào, jīxiào) can lead to misunderstanding. Pay close attention to the first tone (high and level) on 'jī' and the fourth tone (falling) on 'xiào'.
Mistake: '他的绩效很好' (His performance is good) - Correct: '他的工作绩效很好' (His work performance is good) or '他的表现很好' (His performance/behavior is good).
Mistake: Using '绩效' for a simple daily task, e.g., '我今天的做饭绩效'. Correct: '我今天做的饭怎么样？' (How was the meal I made today?).
- 成绩 (chéngjì)
- Comparison: '成绩' is a more general term for 'results' or 'achievements'. It's commonly used for academic success (grades, test scores) and can also refer to the outcome of any task or endeavor. '绩效' is more specific to work performance, often implying evaluation against professional standards.
- Example: '他的考试成绩很好' (His exam results are very good) vs. '他的工作绩效需要提高' (His work performance needs improvement).
- 表现 (biǎoxiàn)
- Comparison: '表现' translates to 'performance' or 'behavior'. It can describe how someone or something acts or functions, and it can be more about the observable quality or manner of doing something. '绩效' focuses more on the quantifiable outcomes and effectiveness of that performance, especially in a professional context.
- Example: '他今天的表现很活跃' (His performance/behavior today was very active) vs. '他的销售绩效创下了新高' (His sales performance/results reached a new high).
- 成果 (chéngguǒ)
- Comparison: '成果' means 'results', 'achievements', or 'fruits'. It emphasizes the positive outcomes or products of effort. While '绩效' is about the process and results of work, '成果' often refers to the tangible end products or successful conclusions of a project or effort.
- Example: '这个项目取得了丰硕的成果' (This project achieved fruitful results) vs. '我们需要评估项目的绩效' (We need to evaluate the project's performance).
- 效能 (xiàonéng)
- Comparison: '效能' refers to 'efficiency' or 'effectiveness'. It's closely related to '绩效' as effectiveness is a component of good '绩效'. However, '效能' often focuses more on the ability to produce a desired result or the degree to which something is effective, whereas '绩效' is the overall assessment of performance, including both efficiency and outcomes.
- Example: '提高设备的效能' (Improve the efficiency/effectiveness of the equipment) vs. '提高员工的绩效' (Improve employee performance).
- 业绩 (yèjì)
- Comparison: '业绩' specifically refers to 'performance' or 'results' in a business or professional context, often related to sales figures, financial achievements, or business operations. It is very similar to '绩效' and often used interchangeably in business contexts, but '绩效' can be broader, applying to non-business roles as well.
- Example: '这家公司的业绩非常好' (This company's performance/results are very good).
'成绩' is for grades, '绩效' is for work.
'表现' is how you act, '绩效' is what you achieve.
How Formal Is It?
"本季度公司整体绩效稳步提升，各项关键指标均超额完成。"
"经理要求我们提交一份关于项目绩效的报告。"
"他这次干得真棒，绩效肯定很高！"
"你今天乖乖听话，你的表现（绩效）就很好！"
Fun Fact
The character '绩' itself is composed of '纟' (silk radical) and '责' (zé - duty, responsibility). This etymology hints at the idea of completing one's duties or responsibilities, which aligns with the concept of work performance.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the tones: Incorrect tones can change the meaning entirely.
- Omitting the 'j' sound in 'jī': It should be a distinct 'j' sound, not just 'ee'.
- Confusing 'x' with 's' or 'sh': The 'x' in Mandarin has a unique sound, similar to a soft 'sh' but produced further forward in the mouth.
- Not separating the syllables clearly: Ensure there's a slight pause or distinct pronunciation between 'jī' and 'xiào'.
Difficulty Rating
Recognizable in professional texts, news articles, and business contexts. Understanding its nuances requires familiarity with business and management terminology.
Can be used correctly in formal writing, especially business reports and analyses. Requires careful attention to context and collocations.
Common in workplace conversations, meetings, and professional discussions. Using it appropriately demonstrates a good grasp of professional Chinese.
Frequently heard in business news, corporate presentations, and HR-related discussions. Its meaning is usually clear from context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 的 (de) to indicate possession or attribute.
他的个人绩效 (tā de gèrén jīxiào) - His individual performance.
Using measure words with specific countable nouns related to performance (e.g., 一次绩效评估 - yī cì jīxiào pínggū - one performance evaluation).
我们进行了一次重要的绩效评估。(We conducted an important performance evaluation.)
Verb-Object structure with performance-related verbs.
评估绩效 (pínggū jīxiào - evaluate performance).
Using conjunctions like '和' (hé - and), '但' (dàn - but), '所以' (suǒyǐ - so) to connect clauses about performance.
他的绩效很好，但是他需要更努力。(His performance is good, but he needs to work harder.)
Using passive voice structures (often implied or using 被 bèi) when discussing performance evaluation.
他的绩效被评估为优秀。(His performance was evaluated as excellent.)
Examples by Level
老师看我的功课。
Teacher looks at my homework.
This sentence uses '功课' (gōngkè - homework) which is a simpler concept related to schoolwork.
他跑得很快。
He runs very fast.
This focuses on simple action and speed, not work evaluation.
这个水果很好吃。
This fruit is very delicious.
This describes a simple positive quality, not performance.
我今天很高兴。
I am very happy today.
Expresses emotion, unrelated to work results.
她的画很漂亮。
Her painting is very beautiful.
Describes aesthetic quality, not work performance.
这个杯子多少钱？
How much is this cup?
A basic question about price.
我们去公园玩。
Let's go play in the park.
Describes a leisure activity.
我喜欢喝茶。
I like to drink tea.
Expresses a personal preference.
他的考试成绩很好。
His exam results are very good.
Uses '成绩' (chéngjì - results/grades), a common term for school success.
这个项目做得不错。
This project was done well.
Uses '做得不错' (zuò de bùcuò - done not bad/well), a general positive assessment.
经理对我们的工作表现很满意。
The manager is very satisfied with our work performance.
Uses '表现' (biǎoxiàn - performance), focusing on observable actions and results.
我们需要提高工作效率。
We need to improve work efficiency.
Focuses on '效率' (xiàolǜ - efficiency), a component of performance.
这次会议的成果很显著。
The results of this meeting were significant.
Uses '成果' (chéngguǒ - results/achievements), emphasizing positive outcomes.
他的销售业绩比去年好。
His sales performance is better than last year.
Uses '业绩' (yèjì - performance/results), specifically in a sales or business context.
这个计划需要更多的时间来完成。
This plan needs more time to be completed.
Focuses on completion time, a factor in performance.
我们应该为客户提供更好的服务。
We should provide better service to customers.
Focuses on service quality, which contributes to performance.
公司正在评估员工的年度绩效。
The company is evaluating employees' annual performance.
This is a direct and common use of '绩效' (jīxiào - performance) in a professional context.
提高团队的整体绩效是我们的首要目标。
Improving the team's overall performance is our primary goal.
Highlights '整体绩效' (zhěngtǐ jīxiào - overall performance), emphasizing collective results.
根据绩效考核结果，他获得了晋升。
Based on the performance appraisal results, he received a promotion.
Connects '绩效' with '考核' (kǎohé - appraisal) and career advancement.
我们需要设定更具挑战性的绩效目标。
We need to set more challenging performance goals.
Uses '绩效目标' (jīxiào mùbiāo - performance goals), common in strategic planning.
销售部门的绩效与奖金直接挂钩。
The sales department's performance is directly linked to bonuses.
Illustrates the link between '绩效' and financial incentives.
这次项目的主要绩效指标是按时交付。
The main performance indicator for this project is on-time delivery.
Introduces '绩效指标' (jīxiào zhǐbiāo - performance indicators), key metrics for evaluation.
我们必须分析导致绩效下降的原因。
We must analyze the reasons for the decline in performance.
Focuses on analyzing negative '绩效' and identifying causes.
该软件的开发绩效超出了预期。
The development performance of this software exceeded expectations.
Applies '绩效' to a product's development process and outcome.
为了优化运营效率，公司对各部门的绩效进行了重新评估。
To optimize operational efficiency, the company re-evaluated the performance of each department.
Connects '绩效' with operational goals and strategic evaluation.
年度绩效评审会议将重点讨论如何提升员工的积极性和创造力。
The annual performance review meeting will focus on how to enhance employee motivation and creativity.
Links '绩效' review to broader aspects of employee engagement and development.
该投资项目的短期绩效虽然不显著，但长期来看潜力巨大。
Although the short-term performance of this investment project is not significant, its long-term potential is huge.
Differentiates between short-term and long-term '绩效' in financial contexts.
管理层需要制定一套公平的绩效激励机制，以充分调动员工的积极性。
Management needs to establish a fair performance incentive mechanism to fully mobilize employee enthusiasm.
Discusses the design of '绩效激励机制' (jīxiào jīlì jīzhì - performance incentive mechanism).
通过对市场反馈的深入分析，我们可以更好地理解客户对我们产品绩效的期望。
Through in-depth analysis of market feedback, we can better understand customer expectations for our product's performance.
Relates '绩效' to customer satisfaction and market reception.
人工智能在提升数据分析的绩效方面展现出巨大潜力。
Artificial intelligence shows great potential in enhancing the performance of data analysis.
Applies '绩效' to technological advancements in fields like AI.
项目延期导致了整体绩效的下滑，这对公司的声誉造成了负面影响。
Project delays led to a decline in overall performance, which negatively impacted the company's reputation.
Illustrates the cascading negative effects of poor '绩效'.
在竞争激烈的市场环境中，持续改进产品绩效是保持竞争力的关键。
In a highly competitive market environment, continuously improving product performance is key to maintaining competitiveness.
Emphasizes the strategic importance of product '绩效' in market competition.
为了实现可持续发展，企业必须将环境、社会和治理（ESG）因素纳入其绩效评估体系。
To achieve sustainable development, enterprises must incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into their performance evaluation systems.
Integrates '绩效评估' (jīxiào pínggū - performance evaluation) with modern business concepts like ESG.
该跨国公司的战略调整旨在优化全球供应链的整体绩效，以应对日益复杂的市场波动。
The multinational corporation's strategic adjustments aim to optimize the overall performance of its global supply chain to cope with increasingly complex market volatility.
Discusses optimizing '整体绩效' (zhěngtǐ jīxiào - overall performance) of complex systems like global supply chains.
部门经理在年度绩效沟通会上，坦诚地指出了团队在创新能力方面存在的短板。
During the annual performance communication meeting, the department manager frankly pointed out the team's shortcomings in innovative capabilities.
Uses '绩效沟通会' (jīxiào gōutōng huì - performance communication meeting) and discusses '短板' (duǎnbǎn - shortcomings) in innovation.
通过实施敏捷开发模式，我们显著提升了软件产品的迭代速度和市场响应绩效。
By implementing an agile development model, we have significantly improved the iteration speed and market response performance of our software products.
Applies '绩效' to specific methodologies like agile development and market responsiveness.
衡量一个组织的核心竞争力，不仅要看其财务绩效，还要考察其人力资本的开发与利用水平。
Measuring an organization's core competitiveness requires not only looking at its financial performance but also examining the level of development and utilization of its human capital.
Expands '绩效' evaluation to include human capital and core competitiveness.
面对全球化竞争加剧的挑战，企业需要构建一套动态的绩效管理体系，以适应快速变化的市场需求。
Facing the challenge of intensifying global competition, enterprises need to build a dynamic performance management system to adapt to rapidly changing market demands.
Discusses the need for '动态的绩效管理体系' (dòngtài de jīxiào guǎnlǐ tǐxì - dynamic performance management system).
研究表明，员工的自主性和参与感与其工作绩效之间存在强烈的正相关关系。
Research indicates a strong positive correlation between employee autonomy and sense of involvement, and their work performance.
Cites research findings on the relationship between intrinsic motivation and '工作绩效' (gōngzuò jīxiào - work performance).
企业文化作为一种软实力，对员工的长期绩效和组织的整体凝聚力有着深远的影响。
Corporate culture, as a soft power, has a profound impact on employees' long-term performance and the organization's overall cohesion.
Explores the indirect but significant influence of '企业文化' (qǐyè wénhuà - corporate culture) on long-term '绩效'.
在后工业化时代，组织绩效的衡量标准已从单纯的财务指标扩展至包含可持续性、创新能力和社会责任等多维度考量。
In the post-industrial era, the metrics for measuring organizational performance have expanded from purely financial indicators to include multi-dimensional considerations such as sustainability, innovation capabilities, and social responsibility.
Discusses the evolution of '组织绩效' (zǔzhī jīxiào - organizational performance) metrics in a complex era.
对标国际一流企业的绩效管理实践，我们认识到在人才发展和知识管理方面仍存在显著的提升空间。
By benchmarking against the performance management practices of world-class international companies, we recognize that there is significant room for improvement in talent development and knowledge management.
Uses '对标' (duìbiāo - benchmarking) to analyze '绩效管理' (jīxiào guǎnlǐ - performance management) practices.
该研究旨在构建一个综合性的绩效评价模型，以量化评估创新生态系统中各参与主体的协同效应。
This research aims to construct a comprehensive performance evaluation model to quantitatively assess the synergistic effects of various participants in an innovation ecosystem.
Focuses on developing advanced '绩效评价模型' (jīxiào píngjià móxíng - performance evaluation models) for complex systems.
在数字经济浪潮下，企业需要重新审视其核心业务流程的绩效，并利用大数据分析来驱动精细化运营。
Under the wave of the digital economy, enterprises need to re-examine the performance of their core business processes and leverage big data analytics to drive refined operations.
Connects '绩效' of business processes with '大数据分析' (dà shùjù fēnxī - big data analytics) in the digital economy.
组织的长期韧性与其短期绩效的权衡是一个持续的战略挑战，需要审慎的决策和前瞻性的视野。
The trade-off between an organization's long-term resilience and its short-term performance is an ongoing strategic challenge, requiring prudent decision-making and a forward-looking perspective.
Explores the complex strategic balancing act between short-term '绩效' and long-term organizational resilience.
通过引入基于区块链的溯源系统，我们得以精确追踪产品生命周期的每一个环节，从而优化了整体供应链的绩效。
By introducing a blockchain-based traceability system, we are able to precisely track every stage of the product lifecycle, thereby optimizing the performance of the entire supply chain.
Applies '绩效' optimization to supply chain management through advanced technology like blockchain.
在评估一个国家经济的宏观绩效时，除了GDP增长率，还需考量就业水平、收入分配公平性以及环境可持续性等综合指标。
When evaluating the macroeconomic performance of a country, in addition to GDP growth rate, comprehensive indicators such as employment levels, fairness of income distribution, and environmental sustainability must also be considered.
Discusses the multi-faceted nature of national '宏观绩效' (hóngguān jīxiào - macroeconomic performance).
企业文化与其员工敬业度、创新意愿以及最终的组织绩效之间存在着复杂的因果链条，需要系统性的研究来厘清。
There is a complex causal chain between corporate culture, employee engagement, willingness to innovate, and ultimate organizational performance, requiring systematic research to clarify.
Delves into the intricate causal relationships between cultural factors and '组织绩效' (zǔzhī jīxiào - organizational performance).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Performance appraisal or evaluation.
年度绩效考核即将开始。(The annual performance appraisal is about to begin.)
— To improve performance.
我们需要制定计划来提高我们的绩效。(We need to create a plan to improve our performance.)
— Performance evaluation.
这次绩效评估很重要，关系到你的升职。(This performance evaluation is important and relates to your promotion.)
— Performance goals or objectives.
每个员工都应该有明确的绩效目标。(Every employee should have clear performance goals.)
— Performance management.
有效的绩效管理能够激励员工。(Effective performance management can motivate employees.)
— Team performance.
团队绩效的好坏直接影响项目进度。(The quality of team performance directly affects project progress.)
— Performance bonus.
我们公司有绩效奖金制度。(Our company has a performance bonus system.)
— Poor performance.
如果绩效不佳，可能会被要求改进。(If performance is poor, you might be asked to improve.)
— Outstanding performance.
他凭借卓越的绩效获得了晋升。(He was promoted due to his outstanding performance.)
Often Confused With
'成绩' is a more general term for 'results' or 'achievements', often used for academic success. '绩效' specifically refers to work performance and its evaluation, implying a more formal assessment against standards.
'表现' means 'performance' or 'behavior' and can describe how someone acts. '绩效' focuses more on the quantifiable outcomes and effectiveness of that performance, especially in a professional context.
'成果' emphasizes the positive end products of effort. While related, '绩效' is the assessment of the performance process and its outcomes, not just the final tangible results.
Idioms & Expressions
— To achieve twice the result with half the effort. While not directly containing '绩效', this idiom describes a state of high efficiency and excellent performance, leading to superb '绩效'.
运用高效的方法，我们可以做到事半功倍，从而大大提升我们的工作绩效。(By using efficient methods, we can achieve twice the result with half the effort, thereby greatly improving our work performance.)
General/Positive— To constantly strive for perfection. This idiom reflects a mindset that drives continuous improvement, leading to consistently high '绩效'.
他对自己要求很高，总是精益求精，因此他的工作绩效一直名列前茅。(He has high standards for himself and always strives for perfection, therefore his work performance is always among the best.)
General/Positive— To strive for perfection. Similar to 精益求精, it describes a dedication to achieving the best possible outcome, which directly contributes to high '绩效'.
在每一个项目中，我们都力求完美，以确保最佳的绩效交付。(In every project, we strive for perfection to ensure the best performance delivery.)
General/Positive— To live up to expectations; not to disappoint. Achieving this state means one's '绩效' has met or exceeded the hopes placed upon them.
他成功完成了这个艰巨的任务，不负众望，展现了出色的绩效。(He successfully completed this difficult task, living up to expectations and demonstrating excellent performance.)
Formal/Positive— A heavy responsibility and a long road ahead. This implies a challenging task where sustained effort and high '绩效' over time are required.
虽然挑战巨大，但我们知道任重道远，必须持续努力，以达成预期的项目绩效。(Although the challenges are great, we know the responsibility is heavy and the road is long, and we must continue to work hard to achieve the expected project performance.)
Formal/Serious— To achieve half the result with twice the effort; inefficient. This is the opposite of good '绩效', representing poor efficiency and outcomes.
如果方法不当，很容易事倍功半，导致工作绩效低下。(If the methods are improper, it's easy to be inefficient and achieve poor work performance.)
General/Negative— To perform a task perfunctorily; to do something just for show. This indicates a lack of genuine effort and will result in poor '绩效'.
他总是敷衍了事，所以他的工作绩效一直不理想。(He always does things perfunctorily, so his work performance has always been unsatisfactory.)
General/Negative— To fulfill one's duties conscientiously. This describes the attitude and behavior that leads to good '绩效'.
作为一名员工，我们应该尽职尽责，以确保良好的工作绩效。(As an employee, we should conscientiously fulfill our duties to ensure good work performance.)
Formal/Positive— So-so; careless; casual. This describes a level of performance that is neither good nor bad, but generally implies a lack of strong '绩效'.
他的工作态度有点马马虎虎，这影响了他的绩效。(His attitude towards work is a bit so-so, which affects his performance.)
Informal/Neutral to Negative— Meticulous; not the slightest degree careless. This describes a level of attention to detail that contributes to high-quality '绩效'.
他工作一丝不苟，因此他的项目绩效总是非常出色。(He works meticulously, so his project performance is always outstanding.)
Formal/PositiveEasily Confused
Both refer to performance/results, especially in business.
'业绩' is primarily used for business and financial performance, such as sales figures or profits. '绩效' is broader and can apply to any type of work performance, including non-financial roles, and often implies a more structured evaluation process.
销售部的业绩很好。(The sales department's business performance is very good.) vs. 他的项目绩效得到了肯定。(His project performance was affirmed.)
Both relate to effectiveness and results.
'效能' focuses on the degree of effectiveness or efficiency – how well something works or produces results. '绩效' is the overall assessment of performance, which includes '效能' as a component but also covers the breadth of outcomes and achievements against goals.
提高设备的效能能降低成本。(Improving the equipment's efficiency/effectiveness can reduce costs.) vs. 我们的目标是提高整体的生产绩效。(Our goal is to improve overall production performance.)
Both translate to 'performance'.
'表现' is often more descriptive of observable actions, behavior, or a general sense of how something is doing. '绩效' is more about the measurable outcomes and evaluation against specific criteria, often in a formal context.
他今天的表现很积极。(His behavior/performance today was very active.) vs. 他的销售绩效创了新高。(His sales performance/results set a new record.)
Both refer to results or achievements.
'成绩' is a general term for results, very common in academic settings (grades). '绩效' is more specific to professional work, implying a structured evaluation of effectiveness and efficiency against set standards.
考试成绩 (exam results) vs. 工作绩效 (work performance).
Both refer to outcomes or results.
'成果' emphasizes the positive end products or achievements of an effort, often tangible. '绩效' is the evaluation of the performance that led to those results, focusing on both the process and the outcome relative to goals.
这个项目取得了丰硕的成果。(This project achieved fruitful results.) vs. 我们需要评估项目的绩效。(We need to evaluate the project's performance.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 的 + 绩效 + Adjective.
我的绩效很好。(Wǒ de jīxiào hěn hǎo.) - My performance is very good.
Verb + 绩效.
我们想提高绩效。(Wǒmen xiǎng tígāo jīxiào.) - We want to improve performance.
公司/团队 + 正在 + Verb + 绩效.
公司正在评估员工的绩效。(Gōngsī zhèngzài pínggū yuángōng de jīxiào.) - The company is evaluating employees' performance.
根据 + Noun + (的) + 绩效 + Verb.
根据绩效，他得到了奖金。(Gēnjù jīxiào, tā dédào le jiǎngjīn.) - Based on performance, he received a bonus.
为了 + Goal, + Verb + 绩效.
为了提高效率，我们需要优化绩效。(Wèile tígāo xiàolǜ, wǒmen xūyào yōuhuà jīxiào.) - To improve efficiency, we need to optimize performance.
项目/产品 + 的 + 绩效 + Adverb + Verb.
这个项目的绩效超出了预期。(Zhège xiàngmù de jīxiào chāochū le yùqī.) - This project's performance exceeded expectations.
将 + Noun + 纳入 + 绩效 + 评估体系.
我们需要将创新能力纳入绩效评估体系。(Wǒmen xūyào jiāng chuàngxīn nénglì nàrù jīxiào pínggū tǐxì.) - We need to incorporate innovation capabilities into the performance evaluation system.
对 + Subject + 的 + 绩效 + 进行 + Comprehensive Verb.
管理层对整个部门的绩效进行了深入分析。(Guǎnlǐ céng duì zhěnggè bùmén de jīxiào jìnxíng le shēnrù fēnxī.) - Management conducted an in-depth analysis of the entire department's performance.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
High in professional and academic contexts.
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Using 绩效 for general results or academic grades.
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Use 成绩 (chéngjì) for grades or general results. Use 绩效 for evaluated work performance.
'绩效' implies a formal evaluation against standards, common in professional settings. '成绩' is broader and more common for tests or general achievements.
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Confusing 绩效 with 表现 (biǎoxiàn).
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'表现' describes observable actions or behavior; '绩效' is the evaluated outcome of that performance.
While related, '表现' can be qualitative and descriptive of conduct, whereas '绩效' is typically quantitative or assessed against specific metrics and goals.
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Mispronouncing the tones.
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Pronounce jī (1st tone, high and level) and xiào (4th tone, falling).
Incorrect tones can significantly alter the meaning or cause confusion. Accurate pronunciation is vital in professional communication.
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Using 绩效 in very informal settings.
→
Use simpler terms like '做得怎么样' (how did it go?) or '结果如何' (what was the result?) in casual conversations.
'绩效' is a formal term. Using it inappropriately can make the speaker sound overly stiff or out of place.
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Treating 绩效 as a countable noun.
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'绩效' is generally treated as an uncountable concept, similar to 'performance' in English.
You wouldn't typically say 'one performance' or 'two performances' when referring to the concept itself, but rather 'the performance' or 'performance levels'. Similarly, in Chinese, you usually refer to '评估绩效' (evaluate performance) rather than using measure words directly with '绩效' itself.
Tips
Link to Evaluation
Remember that '绩效' is not just about results, but about the *evaluation* of those results against standards. This evaluative aspect is crucial to its meaning.
Master the Tones
Pay close attention to the tones: jī (high, level) and xiào (falling). Incorrect tones can lead to misunderstandings, especially in professional settings where clarity is paramount.
Learn Collocations
Memorize common collocations like '绩效考核' (performance appraisal) and '提高绩效' (improve performance). These phrases will help you use the word naturally and correctly.
Apply in Practice
Try to use '绩效' in your own sentences, especially when discussing work, projects, or goals. Role-playing performance review scenarios can be very effective for practice.
Distinguish from Similar Words
Understand the subtle differences between '绩效', '成绩', '表现', and '成果'. Knowing when to use each will significantly improve your accuracy.
Observe in Real Life
Listen to business news, corporate presentations, or Chinese dramas set in offices. You'll frequently hear '绩效' and can observe how it's used in context.
Noun Usage
Remember that '绩效' functions primarily as a noun. When used with verbs, it's often the object (e.g., '评估绩效') or part of a compound noun (e.g., '绩效管理').
Cultural Significance
Appreciate that '绩效' is deeply tied to the cultural value placed on diligence, results, and accountability in Chinese professional environments. This understanding enriches your use of the word.
Regular Review
Periodically review the definition, common phrases, and example sentences. Consistent reinforcement is key to mastering any new vocabulary, especially terms with specific professional applications.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'ji-xiao' sounding like 'gee, wow!' when you see impressive work results. The 'gee' part can remind you of '绩' (achievement) and the 'wow' part of '效' (effect/efficiency). Imagine a manager saying 'Gee, wow, look at this excellent performance!'
Visual Association
Picture a report card or a performance chart with a big green checkmark and a smiley face, symbolizing high '绩效'. Or imagine a factory worker efficiently producing goods with a 'wow' factor.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain the concept of '绩效' to someone using only simple English words, focusing on the idea of 'work results' and 'how well you did'. This will help solidify your understanding of its core meaning.
Word Origin
The term '绩效' is a modern Chinese compound word. It combines '绩' (jì), which historically referred to the results of weaving or spinning, implying accomplishment or outcome, and '效' (xiào), meaning effect, result, or efficiency. Together, they form a term specifically for evaluating the results and effectiveness of work.
Original meaning: '绩' originally related to silk thread or the results of textile work. '效' relates to the effectiveness or impact of an action.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
While '绩效' is a neutral term, discussions around it can be sensitive, especially during performance reviews. It's important to approach these conversations with fairness, clarity, and respect for individual efforts and contributions.
In English-speaking contexts, related terms include 'performance,' 'results,' 'effectiveness,' 'efficiency,' and 'output.' However, '绩效' often carries a more formal and systematic connotation, especially when referring to official evaluations.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Employee Performance Review
- 年度绩效评估 (annual performance evaluation)
- 你的绩效如何？(How is your performance?)
- 需要改进绩效 (need to improve performance)
- 绩效奖金 (performance bonus)
Team Meeting Discussion
- 提升团队绩效 (improve team performance)
- 项目绩效分析 (project performance analysis)
- 共同的绩效目标 (shared performance goals)
- 绩效不达标 (performance not meeting standards)
Business Strategy Planning
- 公司绩效 (company performance)
- 战略绩效 (strategic performance)
- 优化绩效 (optimize performance)
- 绩效驱动 (performance-driven)
Academic Study of Management
- 组织绩效 (organizational performance)
- 绩效理论 (performance theory)
- 绩效衡量 (performance measurement)
- 绩效模型 (performance model)
Sales and Marketing Reports
- 销售绩效 (sales performance)
- 市场绩效 (market performance)
- 广告绩效 (advertising performance)
- 提高营销绩效 (improve marketing performance)
Conversation Starters
"How do you think your company measures employee performance?"
"What are some key factors that contribute to good team performance?"
"Have you ever received a performance bonus? How was it determined?"
"What's the difference between 'performance' and 'results' in a work context?"
"How important is setting clear performance goals for a project?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time you achieved excellent work performance. What factors contributed to your success?
Describe a situation where you had to improve your performance. What steps did you take?
Imagine you are a manager. How would you design a fair performance evaluation system for your team?
What are your personal performance goals for the next quarter, and how will you measure your progress?
How can understanding the concept of '绩效' help you in your current learning or career path?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe character '绩' (jì) historically relates to the results of weaving or spinning, implying accomplishment or outcome. The character '效' (xiào) means effect, result, or efficiency. Together, '绩效' literally means 'accomplishment effect' or 'result efficiency', referring to the outcomes and effectiveness of work.
While most common in business and professional settings for evaluating employees and projects, '绩效' can also be used in academic contexts to refer to a student's academic performance or the results of a research project, as long as there's an element of evaluation against standards.
'成绩' is a more general term for 'results' or 'achievements', frequently used for academic grades. '绩效' is more specific to work performance, implying a formal evaluation of efficiency and outcomes against professional standards. You get '成绩' on a test, but '绩效' in your job.
Yes, '绩效' refers to the evaluation of performance, which can be positive, neutral, or negative. Terms like '绩效不佳' (poor performance) or '绩效下滑' (performance decline) indicate negative outcomes.
No, '绩效' considers both quantity and quality. While metrics like sales numbers or production output are quantitative, '绩效' also encompasses qualitative aspects such as the quality of work, customer satisfaction, and efficiency, all evaluated against set standards.
Very common phrases include '绩效考核' (performance appraisal), '提高绩效' (improve performance), '绩效评估' (performance evaluation), '绩效管理' (performance management), and '绩效目标' (performance goals). These are frequently used in workplace discussions.
In many companies, '绩效' is directly linked to rewards. Good '绩效' can lead to bonuses ('绩效奖金'), salary increases, promotions, or other forms of recognition. Poor '绩效' might result in warnings or development plans.
The closest English equivalents are 'performance' or 'work performance,' particularly when referring to evaluation. However, '绩效' often carries a more formal and systematic connotation in Chinese professional contexts than 'performance' might in casual English.
It is pronounced jīxiào. The first syllable 'jī' is a high, level tone (first tone), and the second syllable 'xiào' is a falling tone (fourth tone).
Yes, it can be used, but '成绩' (chéngjì - grades/results) is far more common for academic performance. '绩效' might be used if discussing a student's performance in a specific project or research where a more formal evaluation framework is applied, similar to a professional setting.
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Summary
绩效 (jīxiào) is a crucial term in professional Chinese, referring to the measured results and efficiency of work or a task, typically evaluated against specific goals or standards. It's central to performance reviews, management discussions, and incentive systems.
- 绩效 (jīxiào) means work performance results or efficiency, evaluated against standards.
- Used in professional and academic contexts for performance evaluation and management.
- Key term for assessing employees, projects, and organizational effectiveness.
- Often linked to bonuses, promotions, and improvement strategies.
Context is Key
Always consider the context when using '绩效'. It's primarily for formal work-related evaluations. Avoid using it in casual conversation about everyday tasks unless you intend to sound very formal or humorous.
Link to Evaluation
Remember that '绩效' is not just about results, but about the *evaluation* of those results against standards. This evaluative aspect is crucial to its meaning.
Master the Tones
Pay close attention to the tones: jī (high, level) and xiào (falling). Incorrect tones can lead to misunderstandings, especially in professional settings where clarity is paramount.
Learn Collocations
Memorize common collocations like '绩效考核' (performance appraisal) and '提高绩效' (improve performance). These phrases will help you use the word naturally and correctly.
Example
公司每年进行一次绩效考核。
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