‘奋发’ is a compound verb meaning to rouse oneself with energy and determination, especially to make vigorous, sustained efforts toward self-improvement or achievement. The character 奋 (fèn) conveys 'to exert oneself' or 'to strive', while 发 (fā) adds the sense of 'to initiate', 'to bring forth', or 'to unleash'. Together, they evoke the image of stirring one’s inner drive and actively channeling it into purposeful action.

This word carries a strong positive, aspirational tone and is commonly used in motivational contexts—such as education, career development, or personal growth. It often appears in set phrases like 奋发图强 (fèn fā tú qiáng, 'to strive to become stronger') or in exhortations urging perseverance and ambition. Though it can stand alone, it frequently modifies verbs or appears after subjects to describe an active, resolute state of effort—not passive hope, but deliberate, energetic commitment.