Meaning
谦虚 describes someone who does not boast about their abilities or achievements, showing humility and modesty. It's a highly valued virtue in Chinese culture, reflecting Confucian ideals of self-restraint and avoiding arrogance. When used as a verb, it means to humble oneself or act modestly.
Usage
谦虚 is generally used as a compliment when describing someone's character. Chinese people often describe themselves as 谦虚 when deflecting praise, which itself is seen as a form of modesty. Common in both formal and informal contexts, though especially important in professional and social settings where showing respect is valued.
Examples
- 01他很有才华，但为人非常谦虚。, .He is very talented, but he is extremely modest as a person.
- 02你别太谦虚了，你的工作做得很出色。, .Don't be too modest, your work is excellent.
Characters
Common collocations
- 为人谦虚to be modest as a person
- 谦虚谨慎modest and prudent
- 过分谦虚excessively modest
- 谦虚的态度a modest attitude
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters relate to humility: 谦 originally meant to speak humbly, while 虚 means empty or void, suggesting an emptying of pride. Together they emphasize the absence of arrogance.