Meaning
阴险 describes someone or something that is secretly malicious, plotting harm in a concealed or underhanded way. It combines the sense of being dark and hidden (阴) with danger (险), capturing the idea of hidden threats or treacherous intentions that are not immediately obvious.
Usage
This word carries a strongly negative connotation and is used to describe people, plans, or actions that are deceitful and harmful. Commonly used in written Chinese and serious speech to criticize someone's character or motives. Often appears with words like 手段 (methods) or 用心 (intentions).
Examples
- 01他表面友好，实际上是个阴险的小人。, .He appears friendly on the surface, but is actually a sinister villain.
- 02这个计划太阴险了，我们必须小心应对。, .This plan is too insidious; we must respond carefully.
Characters
Common collocations
- 阴险毒辣sinister and vicious
- 阴险狡诈sinister and crafty
- 阴险的手段sinister methods
- 阴险的笑容sinister smile
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 阴 (yin, the dark/hidden side, opposite of yang) with 险 (danger/险险). Together they literally mean 'hidden danger,' perfectly capturing the concept of threats concealed beneath a friendly surface.