方得始終

fāng dé shǐ zhōng◆idiom

to see something through to the end

只要方得始終，再难的事也能完成。

As long as you see it through to the end, even the most difficult things can be accomplished.

◆ What It Really Means

The idiom conveys the psychological and cultural value placed on perseverance and endurance in Chinese society. It reflects the belief that success comes from sustained effort rather than fleeting enthusiasm.

¶ Literal Meaning

To achieve from start to finish.

Literal Breakdown

方得to obtain or achieve+始終beginning to end

◇ Mental Image

Imagine a traveler walking a long, winding path from dawn to dusk, finally reaching their destination. The journey symbolizes the effort and time required to achieve a goal.

◈ When to Use

A student studying for a difficult exam might use this idiom to remind themselves that consistent effort over time will lead to success, rather than cramming at the last minute.

◉ Cultural Note

The phrase reflects Confucian values of diligence and perseverance, which are deeply ingrained in Chinese culture. It is often cited in classical texts and modern motivational speeches alike.

literary

To persist in a task or goal until completion, emphasizing the importance of endurance and consistency from beginning to end.

他方得始終，終於完成了這部小說。

He persisted until the end and finally completed the novel.

做任何事都要方得始終，不能半途而廢。

You must see anything through to the end; you can't give up halfway.

Often used to encourage perseverance in challenging endeavors.

Collocations

方得始終的堅持persisting to the end方得始終的精神the spirit of perseverance

Synonyms

堅持到底堅持不懈鍥而不捨

Antonyms

半途而廢虎頭蛇尾

Related Phrases

堅持到底idiom

to persist until the end

鍥而不捨idiom

to carve without stopping, symbolizing unrelenting effort

Pro Tip

When to use this idiom

Use '方得始終' when you want to emphasize the importance of completing a task or goal, especially in the face of difficulty. It is a powerful phrase for encouraging others to stay committed.

Gold Rule

Avoid overusing

While '方得始終' is a strong phrase, avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler alternatives like '堅持到底' may suffice.

Word Origin

The phrase originates from classical Chinese literature, where '方得' (fāng dé) means 'to achieve' or 'to obtain,' and '始終' (shǐ zhōng) means 'from beginning to end.' Together, they convey the idea of achieving a goal through persistent effort over time.

Usage Notes

This idiom is often used in motivational or inspirational contexts to emphasize the value of perseverance. It is suitable for formal speeches, literature, or everyday encouragement.

Word Breakdown

方得

to achieve or obtain

root

始終

from beginning to end

root

汉英词典

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