Together, 牺牲 (xīshēng) originally meant “sacrificial animals.” The term has evolved from its literal, ancient ritualistic meaning to a powerful metaphor. The solemnity and importance of offering something precious to a higher power (be it gods, ancestors, or a national ideal) is retained in its modern usage, signifying a profound and meaningful act of self-denial for a greater good.
The concept of 牺牲 (xīshēng) is deeply woven into the fabric of Chinese culture, largely influenced by the principle of 集体主义 (jítǐ zhǔyì) - collectivism. In a collectivist society, the well-being of the group—the family, the company, the nation—is often prioritized over the desires and ambitions of the individual. To a Western learner, “sacrifice” might sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying a loss of personal freedom or a compromise on one's own happiness. While this can be true for 牺牲 as well, it is more frequently presented and understood as a virtue. The parent who 牺牲 (xīshēng)s their personal hobbies for their child's education, or the employee who 牺牲 (xīshēng)s their weekend for a team project, is often seen as noble and praiseworthy, not as a victim. This is especially prominent in national narratives. Chinese history and media are filled with stories of 烈士 (lièshì) - martyrs and heroes who made the ultimate 牺牲 for the country. This contrasts with the Western emphasis on individualism, where personal fulfillment and self-actualization are often the highest goals, and sacrifice is framed more as a personal choice rather than a societal expectation.
The connotation of 牺牲 (xīshēng) changes significantly depending on the context.