志

Phono-semantic compound:

心 (heart, mind) – semantic, indicating feelings, will, or intention;

之 (to go) – phonetic element, also suggesting movement or direction.

Originally expressed “the heart going toward something,” i.e. an intention or aspiration.

In clerical script (隸書 lìshū), the form of 之 changed into a 士-like shape, leading to the modern form.

Semantic range:

- will, determination, resolve;

- aspiration, ambition, purpose;

- the heart or mind directed toward a goal;

In compounds sometimes used in the sense of “record, chronicle” (from its later role as a simplification of 誌).

의지 (意志) – will, volition

지향 (志向) – aspiration, pursuit, orientation

지조 (志操) – principle, integrity, moral will

지망 (志望) – aspiration, desire, wish

지성 (志誠) – sincerity of will, earnest devotion

투지 (鬪志) – fighting spirit, will to struggle