Meaning and Usage
"心血" literally means "heart's blood," but it is commonly used metaphorically to express great effort, dedication, or painstaking care put into something. It often appears in contexts where someone invests a lot of time, energy, and emotional commitment.
Common Collocations
- 倾注心血 (qīngzhù xīnxuè): to pour one's heart and soul into something
- 付出心血 (fùchū xīnxuè): to expend great effort
- 无数心血 (wúshù xīnxuè): countless efforts
These phrases emphasize the intensity and sincerity of the effort.
Register and Tone
"心血" is a somewhat literary and formal expression, often used in written language or formal speech to highlight dedication. It is less common in casual conversation but understood widely.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "心血" with literal blood from the heart in medical contexts; in everyday use, it almost always refers to effort or care rather than physical blood.