Meanings of 谦逊
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Podcast: 谦逊
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AI Study Notes for 谦逊
谦虚 (qiānxū) vs 谦逊 (qiānxùn): use 谦逊 when emphasizing a deeper or more intrinsic quality of humility, while 谦虚 is more commonly used in everyday contexts.
Be careful not to confuse 谦逊 with other similar terms like 自谦 (zìqiān), which specifically means self-deprecating. This term is generally used in formal contexts, so it’s better suited for academic or professional discussions rather than casual conversations.
As an HSK 6 word, 谦逊 connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to personal qualities and social behaviors. Students should focus on its usage in formal contexts and practice sentences that illustrate humility and modesty.
Learners often confuse 谦逊 with 自满 (zìmǎn), which means complacent or self-satisfied. A wrong example would be saying '他很谦逊' (tā hěn zìmǎn) when describing someone who is actually humble; the correct phrase should be '他很谦逊' (tā hěn qiānxùn).
Pronunciation of 谦逊
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Component Characters
How to say humble in Chinese
“humble” in Chinese is谦逊
谦逊 (qiānxùn) refers to a quality of being humble, modest, or unpretentious. It is often used in contexts where individuals downplay their achievements or abilities, reflecting a cultural value in Chinese society that emphasizes humility and respect towards others.
When to use 谦逊
Be careful not to confuse 谦逊 with other similar terms like 自谦 (zìqiān), which specifically means self-deprecating. This term is generally used in formal contexts, so it’s better suited for academic or professional discussions rather than casual conversations.
谦逊 or something close to it
谦虚 (qiānxū) vs 谦逊 (qiānxùn): use 谦逊 when emphasizing a deeper or more intrinsic quality of humility, while 谦虚 is more commonly used in everyday contexts.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 谦逊 with 自满 (zìmǎn), which means complacent or self-satisfied. A wrong example would be saying '他很谦逊' (tā hěn zìmǎn) when describing someone who is actually humble; the correct phrase should be '他很谦逊' (tā hěn qiānxùn).
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Grammar Patterns of 谦逊
谦逊 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
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回过来____地坐上那只空凳子.
He took the vacant seat with an air of apology.
Example Sentences for 谦逊 (2)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 谦逊
谦逊 (qiānxùn) and 谦虚 (qiānxū) both refer to humility, but 谦逊 implies a more active, ongoing quality of being humble, while 谦虚 often refers to a momentary act of modesty.
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