志向 refers to one's aspirations, ambitions, or goals in life. It is often used to describe what someone hopes to achieve or the direction they wish to take in their personal or professional journey. This term carries a connotation of determination and purpose.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
zhìxiàng(zhi4xiang4) T4
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
May 27, 2026
志向zhìxiàng(zhi4xiang4)
志向 refers to one's aspirations, ambitions, or goals in life. It is often used to describe what someone hopes to achieve or the direction they wish to take in their personal or professional journey. This term carries a connotation of determination and purpose.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, having a clear 志向 is highly valued, often linked to the concept of 努力 (nǔlì, hard work) and dedication to one's chosen path. This reflects the broader societal emphasis on personal growth and achievement.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person pointing to the stars (志) with a determined look, while a compass (向) in their hand shows the way. Together, they represent a goal-oriented journey towards one's aspirations.
About 志向
志向Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 志向
Podcast: 志向
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 志向
Quick Contrast
抱负 (bàofù) - use 志向 for a focus on direction and purpose, while 抱负 emphasizes the ambition itself.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person pointing to the stars (志) with a determined look, while a compass (向) in their hand shows the way. Together, they represent a goal-oriented journey towards one's aspirations.
Usage Notes
志向 is typically used in formal contexts, such as career discussions or personal development conversations. Learners should be careful not to confuse it with related terms like 目标 (mùbiāo, goal), which is more specific. The tone is important; ensure to accurately pronounce the fourth tone in 志 (zhì).
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 7, students should focus on nuanced discussions about personal ambitions and societal expectations. Connecting 志向 with vocabulary about career paths, success, and motivation will enhance understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, having a clear 志向 is highly valued, often linked to the concept of 努力 (nǔlì, hard work) and dedication to one's chosen path. This reflects the broader societal emphasis on personal growth and achievement.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 志向 with the simpler term 目标 (mùbiāo, goal), using them interchangeably. For instance, saying '我的目标是成为医生' (My goal is to become a doctor) can be correct, but it's more common to express this with 志向 to reflect deeper aspirations.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 志向
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 志向 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 志向 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 志向
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, having a clear 志向 is highly valued, often linked to the concept of 努力 (nǔlì, hard work) and dedication to one's chosen path. This reflects the broader societal emphasis on personal growth and achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions about 志向
You can say '我的志向是成为一名医生' (My aspiration is to become a doctor).
Yes, 志向 can refer to aspirations in both personal life and career, emphasizing overall direction.
While it can be used in everyday conversation, it is more prevalent in formal discussions about goals.
