Understanding "失败" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 失败
• Pinyin: shī bài
• Literal Meaning: "Lose" (失) + "Defeat" (败)
• Primary Meaning: Failure; to fail; to be unsuccessful

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"失败" is a neutral term used to describe the state of not achieving a desired goal or outcome. It can refer to personal failures (e.g., failing an exam), professional setbacks (e.g., a failed project), or even broader concepts like failed relationships or plans. Unlike some English synonyms (e.g., "flop" or "disaster"), "失败" doesn’t carry strong emotional connotations unless modified by additional words (e.g., "巨大的失败" - "huge failure").

Character Breakdown

• 失 (shī): Means "to lose," "to miss," or "to err."
• 败 (bài): Means "defeat," "to fail," or "to decay."
  Together, they emphasize the idea of losing or falling short of success.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这次实验失败了。
   Pinyin: Zhè cì shíyàn shībài le.
   English: This experiment failed.

2. Chinese: 失败是成功之母。
   Pinyin: Shībài shì chénggōng zhī mǔ.
   English: Failure is the mother of success. (A common proverb)

3. Chinese: 他因为害怕失败而放弃了。
   Pinyin: Tā yīnwèi hàipà shībài ér fàngqì le.
   English: He gave up because he was afraid of failure.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, "失败" is often viewed as a stepping stone to growth. The proverb "失败是成功之母" reflects this mindset, encouraging perseverance. However, societal pressure (e.g., in academics or careers) can make admitting failure difficult. Historically, Confucian values emphasized learning from mistakes, but modern competitiveness sometimes overshadows this ideal.

Conclusion

"失败" (shī bài) is a versatile word meaning "failure" or "to fail," composed of the characters for "lose" and "defeat." It’s used in both personal and professional contexts, often with a neutral or reflective tone. Remember the cultural proverb—failure isn’t an end but a lesson!