心急如焚

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"心急如焚" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of extreme anxiety or impatience, as if one's heart is burning. It conveys a strong emotional urgency, often related to worry or eagerness for an outcome.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used in situations involving concern for others' wellbeing, anticipation of important news, or urgent matters requiring immediate attention.

Collocations and Patterns

Usage Notes

This phrase is formal and literary, often found in written Chinese or formal speech rather than casual conversation. It is stronger than simply saying "着急" or "担心" and implies a burning intensity of emotion.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 心急如焚 with 急于 or 急躁, which focus more on impatience or irritability rather than deep anxiety or worry.

Example Sentences

He is extremely anxious because the exam results haven't come out yet.

Seeing her child sick, the mother was extremely worried and immediately took

He waited anxiously for the surgery results.