Definition
建功立业 is a four-character idiom (chengyu) meaning 'to achieve great accomplishments and establish a career or legacy'. It's often used to describe someone who makes significant contributions—especially in a professional, military, or political context—and thereby earns lasting recognition. The phrase carries a tone of ambition and honor, and is commonly found in motivational or historical narratives.
f.e.
to achieve great accomplishments and establish a legacyto make one's mark
Examples
- 建功立业，。Tā niánqīng shí lìzhì jiàn gōng lì yè, zuìzhōng chéngwéi yí dài míngjiàng.When he was young, he resolved to achieve great accomplishments and establish a legacy, and eventually became a famous general of his generation.
- ，建功立业。Zài zhège xīn shídài, měi ge rén dōu yǒu jīhuì jiàn gōng lì yè.In this new era, everyone has the opportunity to achieve great accomplishments and establish a career.
- 建功立业，。Chuàngyè zhě yīngdāng yǒu jiàn gōng lì yè de bàofù, ér bú shì zhǐ qiú ānwěn.Entrepreneurs should have the ambition to achieve great accomplishments and establish a legacy, rather than just seeking stability.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.