争取
zhēngqǔ · HSK 3
strive for
🤜🎯 争 = contend + 取 = take; contend to take it = strive for
争 means to compete or contend, 取 means to take or obtain. Together: contend in order to obtain — to strive or fight for something. Used for actively pursuing opportunities, rights, or goals.
争 — hand 爫 (claw) over hand 又 pulling 亅
争 depicts two hands grabbing the same object from above and below, with a vertical stroke representing the contested item between them. The image of two parties tugging at one thing gave rise to its meanings of 'to contend,' 'to fight for,' or 'to dispute.' The modern simplified form streamlines the older 爭.
取 — ear 耳 + hand 又
取 originally depicted a hand (又) grasping an ear (耳), referencing the ancient practice of soldiers cutting off enemies' left ears as proof of kills to claim rewards. The meaning broadened from 'seize/take by force' to the general sense of 'take, get, obtain' used today.