Meaning and Usage
The verb '肩负' (jiānfù) literally means 'to carry on one's shoulders' and is used metaphorically to express taking on responsibilities, duties, or burdens. It often implies a serious or important obligation that someone must bear.
Common Contexts
'肩负' is frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts such as work, leadership, social responsibilities, or national duties. It highlights the weight or significance of the responsibility.
Collocations and Patterns
- 肩负责任 (jiānfù zérèn): to shoulder responsibility
- 肩负使命 (jiānfù shǐmìng): to bear a mission
- 肩负重任 (jiānfù zhòngrèn): to take on a heavy or important task
These collocations emphasize the gravity of the duty being undertaken.
Nuances
Using '肩负' conveys a sense of commitment and seriousness. It differs from simpler verbs like '承担' (chéngdān, to undertake) by stressing the burden or weight of the responsibility. Avoid using '肩负' for trivial or casual tasks.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse '肩负' with '背负' (bèifù), which also means to bear a burden but often has a more physical or negative connotation. '肩负' is more about formal responsibilities and duties.