Definition
自立 (zì lì) means 'to be self-reliant' — it emphasizes standing on one's own feet, especially financially or practically, without relying on others. It is more about personal independence in daily life than 独立 (dúlì), which is broader (e.g., a country's independence). 自律 (zì lǜ) is about self-discipline, not self-reliance.
verb
to be self-reliantto stand on one's own feet
Easily confused
- 资历zī lìsound-alikequalifications and experience; seniority
- 自理zì lǐsound-aliketo take care of oneself; to be self-sufficient
Examples
- 自立，。Tā cóngxiǎo jiù zì lì, cóng bú xiàng jiā lǐ yào qián.He has been self-reliant since childhood and never asks for money from home.
- 自立，。Nǐ yīnggāi xuéhuì zì lì, bú yào zǒngshì yīlài biérén.You should learn to be independent, don't always rely on others.
- 自立。Jīngjì zì lì shì měi ge chéngniánrén yīnggāi zhuīqiú de mùbiāo.Financial independence is a goal every adult should pursue.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.