Chinese idiom · 成语
矢志不渝
Meaning
Arrow-sworn resolve, unwavering; steadfast commitment.
Character by character
Origin and story
Historical antecedentA related passage in the Book of Jin's biography of Xie An says that, although he accepted the court's responsibilities, his wish to return to the Eastern Mountain remained unchanged and showed in his words and expression. This is a contrast between public office and a continuing aspiration for withdrawal, not a battlefield oath.
The passage does not contain the exact modern phrase. It supplies a precedent for the idea of an unchanging intention. In the idiom, shi means to pledge, rather than simply an arrow, and yu means to change. The expression praises steadfast commitment to a chosen purpose over time.
Sources and further reading
In everyday life
三十年来，她矢志不渝地整理家乡的民间故事。
For thirty years, she has remained unwavering in collecting and organizing her hometown's folktales.
Elevated praise for sustained commitment, not a casual preference.