击楫中流 — “To be resolved to strive vigorously for success and strength”

击楫中流 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “to be resolved to strive vigorously for success and strength”. To make a solemn vow to achieve a great goal, often implying a strong determination to overcome difficulties. Literally, “strike the oar in midstream”.

Frequency

击楫中流 Pronunciation and Pinyin

击楫中流 Character Breakdown

Stroke Order

Character	Pinyin	Strokes	Meaning
击	jī	5	strike, hit, or beat
楫	jí	13	oar or paddle
中	zhōng	4	middle, in, China, hit, win
流	liú	10	to flow, circulate, or spread

Example Sentence with 击楫中流

面对未来的诸多挑战，他下定决心要击楫中流，努力开创一番新局面。

Facing numerous future challenges, he was determined to 'strike the oar in midstream' and strive to forge a new path.

Origin and Story of 击楫中流

During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Emperor Yuan of Jin established his rule in the south, while much of the north and central plains were occupied by foreign tribes. General Zu Ti, resolved to reclaim these lost territories, prepared for a northern expedition.

Despite the court only granting him a nominal title, 'General Fenwei,' Zu Ti led his more than one hundred family members and followers across the Yangtze River. As his boat reached midstream, he struck his oar against the water, solemnly vowing not to rest until the central plains were recovered.

He later succeeded in recovering a significant amount of lost land, although the Eastern Jin court ultimately lacked the determination to continue the fight.

This idiom, 'Jī Jí Zhōng Liú,' celebrates a fierce resolve and noble spirit to strive vigorously for a great cause, often in the face of daunting challenges.