Definition
韧性 (rèn xìng) describes toughness or resilience—the ability to resist breaking or to endure difficulty. It differs from 弹性 (tán xìng 'elasticity, flexibility'): 韧性 emphasizes tenacity and resistance to deformation (e.g., tough metal), while 弹性 emphasizes recovery after deformation (e.g., elastic rubber). Metaphorically, 韧性 is resilience/tenacity, 弹性 is adaptability/flexibility.
noun
toughness (of materials, e.g., metal, ceramic)resilience (of character, economy, etc.)
Easily confused
- 人性rén xìngsound-alikehuman nature
- 任性rén xìngsound-alikewillful, headstrong, unruly (acting on impulse or personal whim regardless of reason or consequences)
Examples
- 韧性，。Zhè zhǒng táocí de rèn xìng fēicháng gāo, bù róngyì suì.The toughness of this ceramic is very high; it's not easy to break.
- 韧性。Tā zài chuàngyè guòchéng zhōng zhǎnxiàn le jīngrén de rèn xìng.She showed amazing resilience during the process of starting her business.
- 韧性。Jīngjì rèn xìng shì yìngduì wēijī de guānjiàn.Economic resilience is key to dealing with crises.
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