有志者事竟成

yǒu zhì zhě shì jìng chéng◆idiom

Where there's a will, there's a way

只要有志气，再难的事也能成功。

If you have the willpower, even the most difficult things can be accomplished.

◆ What It Really Means

Success is achievable through persistent effort and strong willpower, regardless of initial difficulties.

¶ Literal Meaning

Those who have ambition will eventually accomplish their goals.

Literal Breakdown

有志to possess ambition+者a person who...+事a matter/thing+竟成will ultimately become accomplished

◇ Mental Image

A metaphorical image of a determined traveler steadily climbing a mountain, eventually reaching the summit despite obstacles.

◈ When to Use

A student preparing for a difficult exam studies diligently every day, refusing to give up despite initial poor results. A mentor might say '有志者事竟成' to encourage them.

◉ Cultural Note

Roots in Confucian philosophy, emphasizing the moral virtue of perseverance ('恒' or perseverance) as a path to self-cultivation and success. Often paired with '天道酬勤' (Heaven rewards the diligent).

formal

Success is possible for those who have strong determination and persistence.

他虽然遇到了很多困难，但凭着‘有志者事竟成’的信念坚持了下来。

Although he faced many difficulties, he persisted with the belief that 'where there's a will, there's a way'.

Often used to encourage someone to keep trying despite challenges.

Collocations

有志者those with ambition事竟成will ultimately succeed

Synonyms

坚持就是胜利持之以恒

Antonyms

半途而废浅尝辄止

Related Phrases

锲而不舍idiom

to carve without stopping (persevere)

滴水穿石idiom

constant dripping wears away the stone (persistent effort achieves success)

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This idiom reflects traditional Chinese values of perseverance and moral cultivation. It's often cited in schools, workplaces, and personal development contexts.

Gold Rule

Usage Timing

Use this idiom when someone faces a long-term challenge or goal. Avoid using it for trivial or short-term tasks.

Word Origin

Originates from the Confucian classic 'Zhongyong' (《中庸》), emphasizing perseverance and determination as keys to success.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to motivate others or reflect on one's own journey. Often appears in educational and inspirational contexts.

Word Breakdown

有志

to have ambition or determination

verb-object

者

a person who...

suffix

事

thing/matter

noun

竟成

will ultimately succeed

verb-complement

汉英词典

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