Meaning
抱屈 describes the feeling of harboring a sense of injustice or grievance, typically when one believes they have been unfairly treated or misunderstood. The word combines 抱 (to hold/embrace) with 屈 (wrong/injustice), literally meaning 'to hold onto a wrong.' It conveys both the emotional burden and the act of nursing these feelings of being wronged.
Usage
This is a somewhat literary or formal expression more common in written Chinese than everyday speech. It's often used in contexts discussing historical injustices, legal matters, or situations where someone feels deeply misunderstood. In modern casual conversation, people might use simpler alternatives like 委屈 (wěiqu) instead.
Examples
- 01他因为被误解而心中抱屈，始终无法释怀。, .He harbored a grievance in his heart from being misunderstood and could never let it go.
- 02她为这件不公正的事情抱屈多年，直到真相大白。, .She nursed a grievance over this unjust matter for many years until the truth came to light.
Characters
Common collocations
- 心怀抱屈to harbor grievances in one's heart
- 满腹抱屈full of grievances
Antonyms
Origin
The word derives from classical Chinese usage where 屈 specifically referred to wrongful treatment or injustice, and 抱 conveyed the sense of carrying or holding onto something. Together they express the ongoing burden of feeling wronged.