愈挫愈勇...

You can use it as an adjective to describe someone's character. You can also use it as a standalone encouragement. It often follows a description of a difficult situation. For example, 'Even though he failed the exam, he is 愈挫愈勇.' It shows you admire their mental toughness. It is a very positive, high-energy phrase.

Use it when someone is facing a series of challenges. It is great for sports commentary when a team is losing but playing harder. Use it in a business meeting to praise a persistent team. It works well when texting a friend who just got a job rejection. It turns a sad moment into an inspiring one. It is perfect for graduation speeches or performance reviews.

Do not use it for minor inconveniences. If you missed the bus, you are not 愈挫愈勇. Do not use it if someone is actually suffering and needs comfort, not a pep talk. It can sound a bit insensitive if the 'setback' is a major personal tragedy. Avoid using it if someone is being stubborn in a bad way. There is a fine line between being resilient and just being reckless.

Chinese culture deeply values the concept of 'eating bitterness' (吃苦). This phrase reflects the Confucian ideal of the 'Junzi' or noble person. A noble person stays true to their path despite adversity. It is also a staple of 'Chicken Soup for the Soul' style Chinese social media. It is the verbal equivalent of a Rocky Balboa training montage. It is deeply rooted in the history of a people who have survived many hardships.

You might hear 越挫越勇. It means exactly the same thing. 越 (yuè) is more common in spoken, casual Mandarin. 愈 (yù) sounds a bit more literary and polished. You can also see 百折不挠, which means 'unstoppable even after a hundred folds.' But 愈挫愈勇 is the most popular way to describe that 'leveling up' feeling after a defeat.