In China, when describing someone’s character, there is often an emphasis on the ability to endure hardship and adversity with resilience. This trait is captured by the phrase 吃苦 (chīkǔ), which translates literally to “eat bitterness.”
The Chinese character 苦 (kǔ) carries a multitude of meanings: bitter, sorrowful, cruel, torment, grief, and persistent effort, among others. These meanings reflect a cultural appreciation for perseverance in the face of hardship.
