Definition
This is a four-character idiom (成语) meaning 'to rouse oneself and chase directly after' — used when someone falls behind and then makes a strong, determined effort to catch up, often in competition, studies, or work. The literal image is 'to rise up with energy and pursue straight ahead.' It's a positive, proactive phrase, not about desperation but about resilience and determination.
f.e.
to strive hard to catch up (after falling behind)
Examples
- ，奋起直追，。Suīrán qǐbù wǎn, dàn tā fèn qǐ zhí zhuī, hěn kuài jiù gǎn shàng le dàjiā.Although he started late, he strove hard to catch up and soon caught up with everyone.
- ，奋起直追，。Zài zuìhòu yí gè yuè, tā fèn qǐ zhí zhuī, zhōngyú kǎo shàng le lǐxiǎng de dàxué.In the last month, she worked hard to catch up and finally got into her ideal university.
- ，奋起直追，。Gōngsī yèjì xiàhuá hòu, tuánduì fèn qǐ zhí zhuī, chóngxīn yíng dé le shìchǎng fèn'é.After the company's performance declined, the team strove to catch up and regained market share.
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