激發（jī fā）

Pronunciation: jī fā

Basic Meaning: to stimulate; to inspire

Detailed Explanation: The word "激發" is composed of two characters: "激" means to stimulate or excite, and "發" means to emit or release. Together, they mean to stimulate or inspire someone's emotions or actions.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is often used to describe the process of arousing someone's enthusiasm, motivation, or creativity.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient China. It is said that during the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a famous strategist named Sun Bin. He served as a military advisor to the State of Qi. One day, Sun Bin noticed that the soldiers were lacking motivation and becoming complacent. In order to inspire them, he devised a plan to set fire to the barracks at night, creating chaos and panic. This unexpected event shocked the soldiers and awakened their fighting spirit, ultimately leading them to victory in battle. Since then, the phrase "激發" has been used to describe the act of stimulating or inspiring others.

Structure of the Idiom: Subject + 激發 + Object

Example Sentences:

1. 這位演講者激發了觀眾的熱情。

(This speaker stimulated the enthusiasm of the audience.)

2. 他的成功經歷激發了我努力奮斗的動力。

(His success story inspired me to strive harder.)

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of "激發," you can associate it with the image of a spark igniting a fire. Just like a spark can start a fire, "激發" represents the act of igniting someone's passion or motivation.

Extended Learning: To further understand the concept of "激發," you can explore related topics such as motivation, inspiration, and leadership. Additionally, you can read books or watch movies about famous inspirational figures to gain more insights into how they were able to stimulate and inspire others.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

- Primary School Student: 媽媽給我買了一本有趣的書，激發了我對閱讀的興趣。

(Mom bought me an interesting book, which stimulated my interest in reading.)

- Middle School Student: 老師的鼓勵激發了我參加演講比賽的勇氣。

(The teacher's encouragement inspired me to have the courage to participate in the speech competition.)

- High School Student: 我們班級的團結合作激發了我們共同追求卓越的動力。

(The unity and cooperation of our class stimulated our collective motivation to strive for excellence.)

- Adult: 這本書的內容真是激發了我對人生的思考。

(The content of this book really stimulated my contemplation about life.)