Meaning
This word describes someone who is slow or awkward in speaking, not eloquent, or appears dull in expression. It often carries a sense of being socially clumsy or unable to express oneself smoothly in conversation, though not necessarily lacking intelligence.
Usage
Commonly used to describe someone's communication style or personality trait. Can be mildly critical but is sometimes used sympathetically or even endearingly to describe someone who is sincere but not smooth-talking. Often appears in character descriptions in literature or when discussing someone's social skills.
Examples
- 01他平时话不多，性格有点木讷，但工作很认真。, , .He doesn't talk much normally and is a bit inarticulate in personality, but he's very diligent at work.
- 02别看他木讷，其实心里什么都明白。, .Don't let his inarticulate manner fool you—he actually understands everything clearly.
Characters
Common collocations
- 性格木讷having an inarticulate personality
- 木讷寡言inarticulate and taciturn
- 显得木讷to appear inarticulate
Antonyms
Origin
The character 木 (wood) metaphorically suggests stiffness or lack of flexibility, while 讷 specifically refers to difficulty in speaking. Together they paint a picture of someone whose speech is as stiff and inflexible as wood.