平常心

píngchángxīn

noun HSK 7 #45,990

Meanings

1 equanimity
2 a calm and composed mindset
3 normal state of mind

Characters

flat; calm; peaceful

ordinary; constant

Examples

面对比赛，要保持一颗平常心。

Miànduì bǐsài, yào bǎochí yī kē píngchángxīn.

When facing a competition, you should maintain a calm mindset.

用平常心对待成功和失败。

Yòng píngchángxīn duìdài chénggōng hé shībài.

Treat success and failure with equanimity.

有了平常心，就不会那么焦虑了。

Yǒu le píngchángxīn, jiù bù huì nàme jiāolǜ le.

With a calm mindset, you won't be so anxious.

Tips

memory

平常 (ordinary/normal) + 心 (heart/mind) = an ordinary heart, i.e. staying calm and not being rattled by circumstances.

culture

平常心 originates from Zen Buddhism (禅宗). The phrase 平常心是道 means 'the ordinary mind is the Way' — emphasizing that enlightenment comes from accepting things as they are.

Stroke Order

平 píng

常 cháng

心 xīn