adjective / verb HSK 5
Traditional 堅定
jiān dìng
firm · resolute · steadfast · to strengthen (one's resolve)

Meaning

坚定 describes a state of being unwavering and determined in one's beliefs, decisions, or actions. It conveys the quality of firmness and resolve, suggesting that a person will not be easily swayed or discouraged. The word can describe both mental states (firm beliefs) and physical actions (steady steps).

Usage

坚定 is commonly used in somewhat formal or written contexts, though it appears in everyday speech when discussing serious commitments or beliefs. It frequently appears with words like 信念 (belief), 立场 (position/stance), 意志 (will), and 步伐 (steps). Native speakers use it to praise someone's determination or to describe unwavering commitment to a cause or principle.

Examples

  1. 01
    他态度坚定地拒绝了这个不合理的要求。
    tài jiān dìng de jué le zhè ge de yāo qiú.
    He firmly refused this unreasonable request.
  2. 02
    面对困难,我们要坚定信心,继续前进。
    Miàn duì kùn nán, men yào jiān dìng xìn xīn, qián jìn.
    In the face of difficulties, we must remain confident and continue moving forward.

Characters

Common collocations

  • 坚定信念
    jiān dìng xìn niàn
    firm belief/conviction
  • 坚定立场
    jiān dìng chǎng
    firm stance/position
  • 态度坚定
    tài jiān dìng
    resolute attitude
  • 意志坚定
    zhì jiān dìng
    steadfast will

Antonyms

Origin

The character 坚 originally depicted something solid like earth or stone, while 定 shows a roof over something settled. Together they create the meaning of something firmly established and unshakeable.

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