积极进取

You usually use this to describe a person's character or work ethic. It often follows the verb 表现得 (behaves) or acts as an adjective before a noun like 精神 (spirit). You can say someone is a 积极进取的人. It sounds very complimentary. It is like giving someone a gold star for their soul. Use it when you want to impress a boss or praise a hardworking friend.

This is a superstar phrase for professional settings. Put it in your resume or LinkedIn bio. Use it during performance reviews to describe your goals. It also works in school settings when talking about a dedicated student. If you are at a wedding, you might use it to toast the groom's bright future. It shows you have high expectations and a great attitude.

Do not use this for someone who is just relaxing. If your friend is lying on the couch eating chips, calling them 积极进取 is sarcasm. It is too heavy for very casual, lazy hangouts. Avoid using it for small, one-time actions. You wouldn't say someone is 积极进取 just because they picked up a piece of trash. It describes a consistent lifestyle or mindset, not a five-second deed.

In Chinese culture, self-improvement is a massive deal. This phrase draws from Confucian values of constant self-cultivation. It became very popular during China's economic boom. Everyone wanted to show they were ready to work hard and build a better life. It represents the 'New China' spirit of growth and modernization. It is the verbal equivalent of a motivational poster with a mountain climber on it.

You might hear 进取心 (jìn qǔ xīn), which means 'an enterprising heart.' People also use 积极向上 (jī jí xiàng shàng) for a more general 'positive vibes' feel. If you want to sound even more poetic, you can use 奋发图强. But 积极进取 remains the most balanced and common version for daily life. It is the 'Little Black Dress' of Chinese motivational phrases.