The Difference between “自己(zì jǐ)” and “自我(zì wǒ)”

Dear friends, for most Chinese learners they often mix the two Chinese word, “自己(zì jǐ)” and “自我(zì wǒ)” when they are learning to read chinese.Yes, it is indeed a hard language point for Chinese learners. Today, you can get the answer from the following text.

Through our chinese reading class you can know taht both “自己(zì jǐ)” and “自我(zì wǒ)” have the meaning of “self” but they are quite different in meaning and usage.

Firstly, Both “自己(zì jǐ)” and “自我(zì wǒ)” can be used as objects, but they are different in meaning. “自己(zì jǐ)” refers to oneself and “自我(zì wǒ)” refers to an abstract concept.

Secondly, “自己(zì jǐ)” can be used as subjects but “自我(zì wǒ)” can not be used like this. You can say: “自己照顾好自己!(zì jǐ zhào ɡù hǎo zì jǐ.) Take good care of yourself!” In this sentence, you can’t replace “自己(zì jǐ)” with “自我(zì wǒ).”

Through our mandarin reading lesson you can also know that both “自己(zì jǐ)” and “自我(zì wǒ)” can be used as attributive, but different in meaning.

“自己(zì jǐ)” refers to “oneself,” such “自己的东西(zìjǐ de dōnɡxi)” “自我(zì wǒ)” indicates “for oneself,” implying “I” am the target. The central words modified by “自我(zì wǒ)” are the words implying feelings, thought or those abstract sense and with the character of acting, such as “自我意识(zìwǒ yìshi), self concept,” “自我否定(zìwǒ fǒudìnɡ), self denial,” “自我完善(zìwǒ wánshàn), improve oneself.”

If you want to read chinese example sentences about the two words, please read the two sentences blow.

Jim emphasizes himself excessively.

He always boasts himself.