HSK 7-9
毅然
yìrán
Resolutely; firmly; determinedly
Structure
Subject + 毅然 + (决定/离开/拒绝/投身/etc.) + Object
How it works
The adverb '毅然' (yìrán) describes a firm, resolute, and unwavering decision or action, often in the face of difficulty or sacrifice. It is typically used for significant life choices, such as leaving a job, joining a cause, or making a major change.
Examples
为了国家的发展，他毅然放弃了国外的优厚待遇。
Wèile guójiā de fāzhǎn, tā yìrán fàngqìle guówài de yōuhòu dàiyù.
For the development of his country, he resolutely gave up the generous benefits abroad.
听到前线的消息，她毅然决定加入志愿者队伍。
Tīng dào qiánxiàn de xiāoxi, tā yìrán juédìng jiārù zhìyuànzhě duìwǔ.
Hearing the news from the front lines, she firmly decided to join the volunteer team.
为了追求艺术梦想，他毅然辞去了稳定的银行工作。
Wèile zhuīqiú yìshù mèngxiǎng, tā yìrán cíqùle wěndìng de yínháng gōngzuò.
To pursue his artistic dreams, he resolutely resigned from his stable bank job.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse '毅然' with '偶然' (by chance). '毅然' implies a conscious, strong-willed choice, whereas '偶然' implies an accident.
Tip
Think of '毅然' as having a 'heroic' or 'valiant' tone; it is almost always followed by a verb that represents a major turning point or a difficult sacrifice.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 毅然 in real Chinese
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