进步

You can use it as a noun or a verb. Most commonly, you will see it with the verb 有 (yǒu) to say someone 'has progress.' For example, 'You have progress' sounds more natural in Chinese than 'You are improving.' You can also add 很大 (hěn dà) to say you have made 'big' progress. It is a very positive, encouraging word.

Use it when you want to praise someone. It works wonders for teachers talking to students. Use it when you are feeling proud of your own hard work. It fits perfectly in performance reviews at work. You can even use it when texting a friend who finally learned how to use chopsticks. It shows you notice their effort.

Do not use it for physical movement like walking toward a door. That is a different kind of 'forward.' Also, avoid using it for things that just increase in number, like prices or weight. You would not say the price of coffee has 进步. That would just be sad for your wallet. It is strictly for skills, quality, or status.

In Chinese culture, constant self-improvement is a huge deal. There is an old saying about a scholar who studied so hard he poked himself to stay awake. 进步 is the modern, less painful version of that spirit. It reflects the value placed on diligence and 'climbing the mountain.' It is the ultimate compliment for a hard worker.

You will often hear 很大进步 (hěn dà jìnbù) for huge leaps. If you want to be fancy, you might hear 不断进步 (búduàn jìnbù), which means 'continuous progress.' In school, teachers love to say 学习进步 (xuéxí jìnbù) as a wish for your studies. It is like saying 'may your brain get sharper every day.'