Definition
终极 (zhōng jí) means 'ultimate/final' but emphasizes the highest or most extreme degree, not just chronological order. It is used for abstract, philosophical, or superlative concepts (e.g., ultimate dream). 最后 (zuì hòu) is simply 'the last in a sequence'; 最终 (zuì zhōng) focuses on 'final outcome/resolution'. 终极 is stronger and more formal, often implying an absolute endpoint.
noun
ultimatefinal (the highest or most extreme degree)
Easily confused
- 中级zhōng jísound-alikeintermediate; middle level
Examples
- 终极。Tànsuǒ yǔzhòu de àomì shì tā de zhōng jí mèngxiǎng.Exploring the mysteries of the universe is his ultimate dream.
- ，终极。Duìyú zhège zhéxué wèntí, hái méiyǒu zhōng jí dá'àn.There is no ultimate answer to this philosophical question.
- 终极。Zhè chǎng bǐsài shì liǎng duì zhōng jí shílì de jiàoliàng.This competition is a test of both teams' ultimate strength.
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