Meaning
胆怯 describes someone who lacks courage or is easily frightened. It refers to a fearful or timid disposition, where a person hesitates to act due to fear or anxiety. The word literally combines the character for 'gall/courage' with 'fearful/cowardly'.
Usage
This word typically carries a mildly negative connotation, describing someone's temperament or behavior in a specific situation. It's often used to describe hesitation in the face of challenges, public speaking, or confrontation. Native speakers might use it to gently criticize someone's lack of boldness or to describe their own nervousness in a self-deprecating way.
Examples
- 01他生性胆怯，不敢在公众面前发言。, .He is timid by nature and doesn't dare to speak in public.
- 02面对挑战时不要胆怯，要勇敢地迎接。, .Don't be timid when facing challenges; bravely meet them head-on.
Characters
Common collocations
- 胆怯的人a timid person
- 显得胆怯to appear timid
- 生性胆怯timid by nature
Antonyms
Origin
In traditional Chinese medicine and culture, the gall bladder (胆) is associated with courage and decisiveness. 胆怯 literally means 'lacking gall' or 'having a weak gall bladder,' metaphorically indicating a lack of courage.