Keep Going in Chinese Tattoo: A Cultural Perspective

Attention
We primarily use simplified Chinese characters. Unless specified otherwise, all texts and designs featured in our articles adhere to simplified Chinese characters.

Thinking of getting “keep going” in Chinese characters as a tattoo? You’re in the right place!

Chinese literature or idioms often make great tattoo designs. But when someone says, “I want this phrase in Chinese,” it gets tricky.

The same goes for “keep going.”

So, I’m here to help! As your native Chinese friend, I want to ensure your Chinese character tattoo looks good and is accurate.

No more chit-chat; let’s get started!

What is the Chinese Version of Keep Going?

Let me show you different translation versions and discuss their suitability for a tattoo.

Literal Translation

When “keep going” appears in books or movies, translators often render it as 继续前进 (Jìxù qiánjìn) or 继续坚持 (Jìxù jiānchí).

The translations align well with the principle of ‘simple and easy to understand.’ We use them much in daily life.

But wait! An accurate Chinese translation of the English original might not result in a beautiful sentence.

While they are accurate translations, using them for a tattoo is too straightforward and lacks charm.

In the eyes of many Chinese people, 继续前进 and 继续坚持 don’t carry aesthetic appeal for tattoos. They should belong in books and everyday conversations.

Even if some artists guarantee their correctness, I won’t say it’s a good tattoo choice.

Spiced-Up Translation

持之以恒

持之以恒 (Chízhīyǐhéng) is a Chinese idiom. It means to persist and persevere, maintaining a state or doing something continuously.

While not a literal translation, it shares similarities with “keep going” in expression.

Pros:

  • Conveys classical idiomatic beauty.
  • Frequently used by Chinese people to self-encourage.

Cons:

  • Not a literal translation.
  • It requires some effort to explain things to non-Chinese speakers.

百折不挠

Breaking down 百折不挠 (Bǎizhébùnáo) makes it easier to understand:

  • 百 (Bǎi) – Signifying “a hundred times,” emphasizing numerous times.
  • 折 (Zhé) – To break or bend, extended to mean setbacks and difficulties.
  • 不 (Bù) – Denoting negation.
  • 挠 (Náo) – Meaning to yield or waver.

So, the literal meaning of 百折不挠 can be explained as “bending a hundred times without breaking.

We more often use its extended meaning—remaining steadfast and unyielding in the face of countless challenges and setbacks.

Pros:

  • Expresses a more resolute meaning than “持之以恒.”
  • Locals would see this tattoo as culturally rich.

Cons:

  • Emphasizes “overcoming numerous obstacles” more than the English original.

Takeaway

持之以恒 and 百折不挠 are words that have been passed down from ancient China and are still used today. They convey meanings similar to “keep going.” Plus, 百折不挠 has a more bold and resolute tone, perfect for expressing strong determination.

Keep Going Chinese Tattoo Designs

In this section, I’ll use various calligraphy styles and artistic fonts for the design.

Semi-Cursive Script

This style exudes a free and unrestrained style, ideal for those who advocate freedom and boldness.

Seal Script

This style features regular shapes and concise strokes, emphasizing geometric beauty. Perfect for smaller tattoos with a seal-like style.

Tip: Seal script is not simplified or traditional Chinese characters. It has its own writing system.

Modern Artistic Fonts

They are creative writing forms that do not adhere to traditional rules. It allows for diverse designs, either standalone or combined with various style elements.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the correct Chinese characters for a “keep going” tattoo can be tricky.

While literal translations like 继续前进 are accurate, they lack aesthetic appeal.

Consider idiomatic phrases like 持之以恒 or 百折不挠 for more profound meaning and cultural richness.

Pair them with artistic fonts for a personalized touch.

Let’s create a tattoo that embodies your unwavering spirit!

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Hou Ruocen

Hou Ruocen is the passionate force behind Hanzi Focus. With expertise in teaching Chinese and a profound love for culture, she ensures your ink reflects both style and substance.
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