to give up on oneself; to abandon oneself to despair or self-neglect; to feel inferior and let oneself go.
小明考试失利后，一度自暴自弃，不愿意再努力学习，后来在老师的鼓励下才重新振作起来。
After failing the exam, Xiao Ming once gave up on himself, unwilling to study hard anymore. It was only with the teacher's encouragement that he regained his spirit.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, Mencius taught his students not to be people who give up on themselves (自暴自弃).
The students, puzzled, asked for clarification. Mencius explained that 'zibao' (self-abuse) refers to speaking in a way that disregards propriety and righteousness, thereby harming oneself.
'Ziqi' (self-abandonment) means harboring thoughts that deviate from benevolence and righteousness, thus forsaking oneself.
He emphasized that benevolence is the most peaceful dwelling, and righteousness is the most correct path, urging them to conduct all affairs in accordance with these virtues.
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