可持续性 in 30 Seconds
- Sustainability (可持续性) is the ability to last long-term.
- It involves three pillars: Environment, Economy, and Society.
- In Chinese, it is a noun (可持续性) derived from the adjective (可持续).
- It is a key term in modern business (ESG) and global policy.
The term 可持续性 (kě chí xù xìng) is a multi-dimensional concept that has evolved from a niche environmental term into a cornerstone of global policy, economics, and social ethics. At its core, it refers to the capacity to endure or maintain a process over a long duration. In the modern context, it is most frequently associated with the 'Triple Bottom Line': environmental health, social equity, and economic viability. When we speak of 可持续性, we are discussing the delicate balance of meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Environmental Dimension
- Focuses on the integrity of biological systems. It involves resource management, reducing carbon footprints, and protecting biodiversity to ensure the planet remains habitable.
- Economic Dimension
- Refers to the ability of an economy to support a defined level of economic production indefinitely. This includes sustainable business practices and circular economies.
- Social Dimension
- Involves the promotion of social well-being, including labor rights, community health, and social justice, ensuring that development benefits all sectors of society.
“我们必须优先考虑城市发展的可持续性，以应对气候变化。” (We must prioritize the sustainability of urban development to tackle climate change.)
Etymologically, the word is composed of three parts: 可 (kě - can/able), 持续 (chí xù - continue/sustain), and 性 (xìng - nature/property). Together, they literally translate to 'the property of being able to continue.' This linguistic structure is common in Chinese for abstract nouns derived from verbs. In academic circles, you might encounter it in discussions regarding 'Sustainable Development Goals' (SDGs), where it serves as the foundational pillar for international cooperation.
Example in Business Context:
“这家公司的长期竞争力取决于其商业模式的可持续性。”
Example in Agriculture:
“有机耕作有助于提高土地的可持续性。”
- Global Impact
- Sustainability is the key to preventing resource depletion.
- Corporate Responsibility
- ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) scores heavily rely on this.
Using 可持续性 correctly requires understanding its grammatical function as an abstract noun. In Chinese, nouns like this often appear as the object of verbs like '提高' (tí gāo - improve), '增强' (zēng qiáng - strengthen), or '评估' (píng gū - evaluate). It can also function as the subject of a sentence when discussing the feasibility of a project or policy.
1. As a Direct Object
This is the most common usage. Organizations often talk about improving their sustainability.
Pattern: [Verb] + [可持续性]
“我们需要提高能源利用的可持续性。” (We need to improve the sustainability of energy use.)
2. As a Subject
When the focus is on the concept itself.
Pattern: [可持续性] + [Verb/Adjective]
“项目的可持续性是我们的首要考量。” (The sustainability of the project is our primary consideration.)
3. Modifying Other Nouns
While '可持续的' is the standard adjective, '可持续性' can sometimes act as a modifier in compound terms, though this is more formal/academic.
- 可持续性报告 (Sustainability Report)
- 可持续性发展 (Sustainability Development - though '可持续发展' is more common)
- 可持续性指标 (Sustainability Indicators)
In professional settings, especially in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) discussions, you will hear it paired with specific sectors: '供应链的可持续性' (Supply chain sustainability) or '财政的可持续性' (Fiscal sustainability). The latter shows that the word isn't limited to green issues but also applies to finance and debt management.
You will encounter 可持续性 in a variety of high-level contexts. It is a 'buzzword' in the best sense—carrying significant weight in policy and business. Here are the primary domains where it appears:
1. News and Media
News reports on climate change, international summits (like COP), and government initiatives frequently use this term. It sounds authoritative and modern.
“新闻联播经常提到‘绿色发展的可持续性’。” (CCTV News often mentions the 'sustainability of green development'.)
2. Corporate Environment
If you work for a multinational or a large Chinese tech firm (like Tencent or Alibaba), you will see this in annual reports. It is the 'S' in ESG discussions.
- 🏢 ESG报告: “我们致力于提升供应链的可持续性。”
- 💼 会议: “这个商业模式缺乏可持续性。” (This business model lacks sustainability.)
3. Academic and Scientific Research
In papers regarding ecology, urban planning, and economics, this word is indispensable. It is used to define the parameters of long-term viability.
4. Urban Planning and Architecture
Architects and city planners use it to describe 'Sponge Cities' (海绵城市) or energy-efficient buildings. It's about the longevity of the built environment.
In daily conversation, it is less common than in formal writing. However, if you are discussing long-term habits (like a diet or a study plan), you might use it metaphorically: “这种极端的减肥方法没有可持续性。” (This extreme weight loss method isn't sustainable.)
Even advanced learners often stumble when using 可持续性. Here are the most frequent errors and how to avoid them:
1. Misusing it as an Adjective
In English, 'sustainability' (noun) and 'sustainable' (adjective) are distinct. In Chinese, learners often try to use '可持续性' where '可持续' or '可持续的' should go.
- ❌ Incorrect:
- 可持续性发展 (Sustainability development - grammatically awkward)
- ✅ Correct:
- 可持续发展 (Sustainable development - the standard term)
2. Confusing with '持续' (Chí xù)
'持续' is a verb meaning 'to continue.' '可持续性' is the ability to continue. You cannot say '雨可持续性了三天' (The rain sustainability-ed for three days).
“持续” describes an action happening. “可持续性” describes a quality or potential.
3. Overusing it in Informal Contexts
Using '可持续性' while buying vegetables or chatting with friends can sound overly 'bookish' or pretentious. In casual speech, people prefer '长久' (cháng jiǔ - long-lasting) or '能坚持下去' (néng jiān chí xià qù - can keep going).
4. Wrong Collocations
Learners sometimes pair it with '做' (zuò - do). You don't 'do' sustainability; you 'achieve' it (实现), 'maintain' it (保持), or 'improve' it (提高).
Understanding the nuances between 可持续性 and its synonyms will elevate your Chinese from functional to sophisticated.
- 1. 环保 (Huán Bǎo)
Short for 环境保护 (Environmental Protection). While '可持续性' is broad (economic/social/eco), '环保' is strictly about protecting the environment.
Example: “这个包装很环保。” (This packaging is eco-friendly.)
- 2. 稳定性 (Wěn dìng xìng)
Stability. Often confused in economic contexts. 'Stability' means not changing or failing; 'Sustainability' means being able to last long-term without depleting resources.
Example: “市场的稳定性很重要。” (Market stability is important.)
- 3. 延续性 (Yán xù xìng)
Continuity. Focuses on the sequence or the 'unbroken' nature of a policy or tradition. It doesn't necessarily imply the 'resource-saving' aspect of sustainability.
Example: “政策的延续性对企业很有利。” (The continuity of policy is beneficial to businesses.)
- 4. 耐久性 (Nài jiǔ xìng)
Durability. Usually refers to physical objects like shoes, buildings, or machines. You wouldn't use 'sustainability' to describe how long a pair of boots lasts.
Example: “这种材料的耐久性很好。” (The durability of this material is very good.)
How Formal Is It?
Difficulty Rating
Grammar to Know
Suffix '-性' for abstract nouns
The '把' construction with abstract objects
Using '具有' vs '有'
Noun-modifying phrases with '的'
Cause-effect structures (因为...所以 / 因...而)
Examples by Level
我们要保护环境的可持续性。
We need to protect the sustainability of the environment.
Simple noun usage as object.
可持续性很重要。
Sustainability is very important.
Subject + Adjective.
这个方法有可持续性吗？
Does this method have sustainability?
Question form using '有...吗'.
水资源的可持续性。
The sustainability of water resources.
Noun phrase with '的'.
森林的可持续性。
The sustainability of forests.
Noun phrase with '的'.
为了可持续性，请节约用纸。
For sustainability, please save paper.
Preposition '为了' (for).
我们要学习可持续性。
We need to learn about sustainability.
Verb '学习' + Object.
什么是可持续性？
What is sustainability?
Basic '什么是' question.
太阳能具有很好的可持续性。
Solar energy has great sustainability.
Using '具有' (to possess/have).
我们需要关注发展的可持续性。
We need to pay attention to the sustainability of development.
Verb '关注' (pay attention to).
这个项目的可持续性很高。
The sustainability of this project is very high.
Subject + 很 + Adjective.
保护海洋的可持续性是我们的责任。
Protecting the sustainability of the ocean is our responsibility.
Gerund-like subject phrase.
这种生活方式缺乏可持续性。
This lifestyle lacks sustainability.
Verb '缺乏' (to lack).
政府支持可持续性研究。
The government supports sustainability research.
Subject + Verb + Object.
为了地球的可持续性，少开车。
For the sustainability of the Earth, drive less.
Imperative sentence with a reason.
我们要提高农业的可持续性。
We need to improve the sustainability of agriculture.
Verb '提高' (to improve).
企业应该把可持续性放在首位。
Enterprises should put sustainability in the first place.
Using '把' construction.
评估一个政策的可持续性非常重要。
It is very important to evaluate the sustainability of a policy.
Verb '评估' (to evaluate).
这种经济模式的可持续性受到了质疑。
The sustainability of this economic model has been questioned.
Passive-like '受到...质疑'.
我们需要从长远考虑可持续性问题。
We need to consider sustainability issues from a long-term perspective.
Prepositional phrase '从...考虑'.
城市规划必须考虑环境的可持续性。
Urban planning must consider environmental sustainability.
Modal verb '必须' (must).
可持续性不仅仅是关于环保。
Sustainability is not just about environmental protection.
Structure '不仅仅是关于'.
通过创新，我们可以增强可持续性。
Through innovation, we can enhance sustainability.
Preposition '通过' (through).
这家公司的可持续性报告做得很专业。
This company's sustainability report is very professional.
Noun as a modifier.
实现经济增长与环境可持续性的平衡是一项挑战。
Achieving a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability is a challenge.
Complex subject phrase.
我们需要建立一个具有可持续性的供应链。
We need to establish a sustainable supply chain.
Relative clause '具有...的'.
财政的可持续性是国家稳定的基础。
Fiscal sustainability is the foundation of national stability.
Abstract noun usage in finance.
该项目因缺乏可持续性而被否决了。
The project was rejected due to a lack of sustainability.
Cause and effect with '因...而'.
可持续性已成为现代企业核心竞争力的重要组成部分。
Sustainability has become an important part of the core competitiveness of modern enterprises.
Advanced '成为...组成部分' structure.
我们应当探索资源利用的可持续性路径。
We should explore sustainable paths for resource utilization.
Formal verb '探索' (explore).
社会的可持续性取决于公平的资源分配。
The sustainability of society depends on fair resource distribution.
Verb '取决于' (depends on).
提高能源的可持续性有助于减缓气候变化。
Improving energy sustainability helps mitigate climate change.
Verb '有助于' (helps to).
在全球化背景下，讨论发展的可持续性具有深远意义。
In the context of globalization, discussing the sustainability of development has profound significance.
Formal '具有...意义' structure.
债务的可持续性是评估主权信用风险的关键指标。
Debt sustainability is a key indicator for assessing sovereign credit risk.
Technical financial terminology.
我们需要在政策制定中嵌入可持续性的考量。
We need to embed sustainability considerations into policy-making.
Formal verb '嵌入' (embed).
该研究质疑了当前消费模式的可持续性。
The study questioned the sustainability of current consumption patterns.
Formal verb '质疑' (question).
生态文明建设的核心在于实现人与自然的可持续性共生。
The core of ecological civilization construction lies in achieving sustainable symbiosis between humans and nature.
Philosophical/Political terminology.
这种短视的行为严重损害了长期发展的可持续性。
This short-sighted behavior seriously damaged the sustainability of long-term development.
Adverb '严重' + Verb '损害'.
我们需要通过技术革新来突破资源的可持续性瓶颈。
We need to break through the sustainability bottleneck of resources through technological innovation.
Metaphorical '瓶颈' (bottleneck).
可持续性不仅仅是一个口号，更需要切实的行动。
Sustainability is not just a slogan; it requires practical action.
Structure '不仅仅是...更需要'.
在人类世的语境下，重新审视可持续性的内涵显得尤为迫切。
In the context of the Anthropocene, re-examining the connotation of sustainability appears particularly urgent.
Academic '尤为迫切' structure.
该论著深入探讨了社会契约与代际可持续性之间的辩证关系。
The work explores in depth the dialectical relationship between social contracts and intergenerational sustainability.
High-level academic vocabulary.
我们必须警惕那种以牺牲可持续性为代价的短期繁荣。
We must be wary of short-term prosperity at the expense of sustainability.
Idiomatic '以...为代价'.
系统的复杂性往往掩盖了其潜在的可持续性危机。
The complexity of the system often masks its potential sustainability crisis.
Formal verb '掩盖' (mask/hide).
通过构建循环经济体系，我们旨在实现物质流动的可持续性闭环。
By building a circular economy system, we aim to achieve a sustainable closed loop of material flow.
Technical '闭环' (closed loop) terminology.
可持续性范式的转型要求我们彻底改变现有的生产方式。
The transformation of the sustainability paradigm requires us to fundamentally change existing modes of production.
Academic '范式' (paradigm).
在全球治理中，可持续性原则应当被赋予法律约束力。
In global governance, the principle of sustainability should be given legal binding force.
Legal/Political terminology.
该政策的成败在于其能否在多重利益诉求中维持可持续性平衡。
The success or failure of the policy lies in whether it can maintain a sustainable balance among multiple interest claims.
Complex '在于其能否' structure.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
Verb (to continue) vs Noun (sustainability).
Consecutive/uninterrupted vs Sustainable.
Environmental protection vs Broad sustainability.
Idioms & Expressions
Easily Confused
Sentence Patterns
How to Use It
It is more formal than '长久' and broader than '环保'.
Don't say '做可持续性'; say '追求可持续性' (pursue sustainability).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 我要可持续性我的生活).
- Forgetting the '性' when a noun is needed.
- Confusing it with '持续' (continuous).
- Using it in very informal settings where '长久' is better.
- Mispronouncing the fourth tones on 'xù' and 'xìng'.
Tips
Noun Marker
Remember that '-性' always indicates a noun. This helps you place it correctly in a sentence as a subject or object.
The Three Pillars
When discussing this word, try to mention '环境' (environment), '经济' (economy), and '社会' (society) to show deep understanding.
HSK Tip
This word often appears in reading passages about technology or urban planning. Look for it near words like '资源' (resources) or '未来' (future).
Professional Tone
Using this word in a business meeting makes you sound more professional and aware of global trends like ESG.
Collocation
Always pair it with '提高' (improve) or '实现' (achieve) for natural-sounding Chinese.
Context Clues
If you hear '可持续', wait for the next syllable. If it's '性', it's the noun; if it's '发展', it's the adjective phrase.
Policy Context
In China, this word is often linked to the 'Double Carbon' (双碳) goals. Mentioning this shows cultural fluency.
Break it Down
Ke (Can) + Chi (Hold) + Xu (Continue) + Xing (Nature). The nature of being able to hold and continue.
Avoid Overuse
Don't use it for small things like 'the sustainability of my pencil.' Use it for systems, policies, and big ideas.
Logic Check
Sustainability is about 'long-term.' If a sentence is about 'right now,' this word might not be the best fit.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of a 'Key' (Ke) to 'Keep' (Chi) 'X-ing' (Xu) the 'Thing' (Xing). It's the ability to keep things going!
Word Origin
Cultural Context
Linked to 'Green Development' (绿色发展).
Crucial for Chinese companies going global and meeting international ESG standards.
Echoes Taoist ideas of living in harmony with nature.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Conversation Starters
"你认为我们城市的可持续性做得怎么样？"
"在日常生活中，你如何实践可持续性？"
"你觉得这家公司的商业模式有可持续性吗？"
"为了地球的可持续性，我们应该做些什么？"
"可持续性对你来说意味着什么？"
Journal Prompts
写一写你对‘可持续生活’的看法。
讨论一下你所在行业的可持续性挑战。
如果资源耗尽，人类的可持续性将面临什么？
分析一个你认为具有可持续性的商业案例。
反思一下你的消费习惯是否具有可持续性。
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it also includes economic and social aspects. It is about the long-term health of any system.
Technically no. Use '可持续的' for adjectives. '可持续性' is the noun form.
The most common antonym is '不可持续性' (insustainability) or '短期性' (short-termism).
It's mostly used in professional, academic, or news contexts. In daily life, people use simpler words.
It is '可持续性报告' (kě chí xù xìng bào gào).
Yes, it typically appears in HSK 5 and HSK 6 materials.
No. Say '很有可持续性' or '具有可持续性'.
It is '可持续发展' (kě chí xù fā zhǎn).
Not exactly. 'Green' (绿色) is a subset of sustainability focused on the environment.
The suffix '性' turns the concept into an abstract noun, similar to '-ity' in English.
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Summary
可持续性 (kě chí xù xìng) is an essential B2-level noun for discussing long-term viability in environmental, economic, and social contexts. It literally means 'the property of being able to continue' and is a cornerstone of modern professional Chinese.
- Sustainability (可持续性) is the ability to last long-term.
- It involves three pillars: Environment, Economy, and Society.
- In Chinese, it is a noun (可持续性) derived from the adjective (可持续).
- It is a key term in modern business (ESG) and global policy.
Noun Marker
Remember that '-性' always indicates a noun. This helps you place it correctly in a sentence as a subject or object.
The Three Pillars
When discussing this word, try to mention '环境' (environment), '经济' (economy), and '社会' (society) to show deep understanding.
HSK Tip
This word often appears in reading passages about technology or urban planning. Look for it near words like '资源' (resources) or '未来' (future).
Professional Tone
Using this word in a business meeting makes you sound more professional and aware of global trends like ESG.
Example
为了长远的发展，我们必须考虑经济的可持续性。
Related Content
More environment words
堆积
B1To pile up or accumulate in a heap. It can refer to physical objects, sediment, or abstract things like work or emotions.
顺应
B2To adapt to, comply with, or follow a trend, natural law, or social change. It implies a harmonious adjustment to external conditions.
气候
B1The general weather conditions prevailing in an area over a long period. In IELTS, it is almost always discussed in the context of 'change' or 'global warming'.
耗费
B1To use up or spend a lot of resources, such as time, money, or energy, often in a way that suggests a significant amount is required.
消耗
B1To use up resources, energy, or time. In academic writing, it often refers to the consumption of natural resources or the energy expenditure of a system.
遏制
B1To prevent something (usually something negative) from growing, spreading, or becoming worse by using force, control, or regulation.
损害
B1To cause physical harm to something so as to impair its value or usefulness; or to cause injury to someone's health or reputation.
锐减
B1To decrease or drop sharply and rapidly.
枯竭
B2To be completely used up or run dry; typically used for resources, water, or even creativity and energy.
破坏
B1To cause severe damage to something so that it no longer exists or can no longer function. It can refer to physical objects, systems, or abstract concepts like relationships.
