Definition
This chengyu (four-character idiom) literally means 'ten thousand thoughts all turned to ashes' — a vivid way of saying someone has lost every shred of hope or motivation. It usually follows a major setback or tragedy, describing a state of complete emotional collapse.
f.e.
utterly disheartenedin utter despairall hopes dashed
Examples
- ，万念俱灰，。Gōngsī pòchǎn hòu, tā wàn niàn jù huī, zhěngtiān bǎ zìjǐ guān zài fángjiān lǐ.After his company went bankrupt, he was utterly disheartened and locked himself in his room all day.
- 万念俱灰，。Gāokǎo luòbǎng shǐ tā wàn niàn jù huī, dàn jiārén de gǔlì ràng tā chóngxīn zhènzuò qǐlái.Failing the college entrance exam left her in utter despair, but her family's encouragement helped her pull herself together.
- ，万念俱灰，。Tīng dào hǎoyǒu qùshì de xiāoxi, tā wàn niàn jù huī, yǎnlèi zhǐ bú zhù de liú.Upon hearing of his close friend's death, he was utterly disheartened, tears streaming uncontrollably.
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