noun HSK 4
yīng xióng
hero · heroic

Meaning

英雄 refers to a hero or someone who displays exceptional courage, nobility, or accomplishments. It can describe historical figures, fictional characters, or ordinary people who perform extraordinary acts of bravery or service.

Usage

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Can be used as a noun ('he is a hero') or attributively ('heroic deeds'). Often appears in patriotic contexts, war narratives, and stories of personal sacrifice. The term carries strong positive connotations and is used to honor those who demonstrate exceptional character or courage.

Examples

  1. 01
    他是我们心目中的英雄
    shì wǒmen xīn zhōng de yīng xióng.
    He is a hero in our hearts.
  2. 02
    这部电影讲述了一位民族英雄的故事。
    Zhè diàn yǐng jiǎng shù le wèi mín yīng xióng de shi.
    This movie tells the story of a national hero.

Characters

Measure words

  • wèi一位英雄
  • 一个英雄

Common collocations

  • 民族英雄
    mín yīng xióng
    national hero
  • 英雄人物
    yīng xióng rén
    heroic figure
  • 英雄主义
    yīng xióng zhǔ
    heroism
  • 英雄事迹
    yīng xióng shì
    heroic deeds

Antonyms

Origin

Both characters originally conveyed excellence and strength. 英 originally meant 'flower' or 'essence,' evolving to mean 'outstanding.' 雄 depicts a male bird, symbolizing power and dominance. Together they form a compound emphasizing exceptional masculine virtues like courage and strength.

Related