adjective HSK 4
Traditional 膽小
timid · cowardly · faint-hearted
Meaning
胆小 literally means 'small gall bladder' and describes someone who is easily frightened or lacks courage. In Chinese medicine and culture, the gall bladder is associated with courage and decision-making, so having a 'small gall bladder' means being timid or fearful.
Usage
This is a common everyday term used to describe people who are afraid or hesitant. It can be used gently or teasingly among friends, but can also be mildly critical. Often appears in the pattern 胆小鬼 (dǎnxiǎoguǐ, 'scaredy-cat') when teasing someone.
Examples
- 01他从小就很胆小，连老鼠都怕。, .He's been timid since childhood; he's even afraid of mice.
- 02不要胆小，大胆地说出你的想法。, .Don't be timid; boldly speak your mind.
Characters
Common collocations
- 胆小鬼coward, scaredy-cat
- 胆小怕事timid and afraid of trouble
- 生性胆小naturally timid
- 别那么胆小don't be so timid
Antonyms
Origin
The connection between the gall bladder (胆) and courage comes from traditional Chinese medicine, where the organ was believed to control bravery and decision-making ability.