半途而废

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"半途而废" is an idiom meaning to give up halfway or leave something unfinished. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of perseverance or commitment.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used to describe situations where someone starts a task, project, or goal but quits before completion, often due to difficulties or loss of motivation.

Collocations and Patterns

Usage Notes

When using 半途而废, the speaker usually wants to emphasize the importance of persistence and criticize quitting prematurely. It is often used in educational, work, or self-improvement contexts.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse 半途而废 with 放弃 (to give up), which is more general. 半途而废 specifically highlights quitting in the middle of a process rather than at the start or end.

Example Sentences

You can't give up halfway when learning a new language; you need to persist

He gave up halfway because he encountered difficulties and couldn't finish

Many people start exercising but soon give up halfway.