含蓄 (hán xù) — Chinese Word

adjective HSK 5

hán xù

implicit · reserved · subtle · implicit and restrained

Meaning

含蓄 describes a style of expression or behavior that is indirect, understated, and restrained rather than explicit or direct. It often carries positive connotations in Chinese culture, suggesting elegance, thoughtfulness, and emotional maturity. The word can describe speech, writing, art, or a person's manner.

Usage

含蓄 is commonly used to praise someone's refined communication style or artistic work that conveys meaning indirectly. It reflects a traditional Chinese cultural value of expressing emotions and opinions with restraint and subtlety. Often contrasted with 直接 (direct) or 外露 (openly expressed).

Examples

01
她说话很含蓄，从不直接批评别人。
Tā shuō huà hěn hán xù, cóng bù zhí jiē pī píng bié rén.
She speaks very subtly and never criticizes others directly.
02
这首诗用含蓄的方式表达了对家乡的思念。
Zhè shǒu shī yòng hán xù de fāng shì biǎo dá le duì jiā xiāng de sī niàn.
This poem expresses homesickness in an implicit way.

Characters

Common collocations

含蓄的表达
hán xù de biǎo dá
implicit expression
含蓄的美
hán xù de měi
subtle beauty
比较含蓄
bǐ jiào hán xù
rather reserved
含蓄地说
hán xù de shuō
to say implicitly

Antonyms

Origin

The literal meaning suggests 'containing and storing' emotions or meanings rather than releasing them directly, reflecting the idea of holding back expression.