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认真
rèn zhēn
serious
他做事很认真，从不马虎。
He is very serious about his work and never careless.
neutral
showing deep sincerity and care about doing something correctly or properly
老师要求学生认真完成作业。
The teacher asks students to complete their homework seriously.
请认真阅读合同条款。
Please read the contract terms carefully.
Used to describe both actions (e.g., studying) and attitudes (e.g., being earnest).
neutral
conscientious; diligent
她是一个认真的员工，工作总是很出色。
She is a conscientious employee and always performs excellently.
Often used to praise someone's dedication to their work or studies.
Pro Tip
Common Mistake: Overusing 'serious'
In Chinese, 认真 is often translated as 'serious,' but it carries a more positive connotation of being earnest or diligent. Avoid using 'serious' in contexts where 'conscientious' or 'thorough' might fit better in English.
Gold Rule
Position in Sentence
As an adverb, 认真 typically precedes the verb it modifies (e.g., 认真听 'listen carefully'). As an adjective, it describes a person's attitude or approach (e.g., 认真的学生 'a serious student').
Word Origin
认 (rèn) means 'to recognize' or 'to admit,' and 真 (zhēn) means 'true' or 'real.' Together, they imply acknowledging the truth and acting accordingly, hence 'serious' or 'earnest.'
Usage Notes
认真 can function as an adjective (e.g., 认真的人 'a serious person') or an adverb (e.g., 认真学习 'study seriously'). It often appears before verbs to emphasize the attitude toward the action.
Word Breakdown
认
to recognize or admit
root真
true or real
root汉英词典