Meaning
内敛 describes a personality trait or demeanor characterized by being reserved, modest, and not openly expressive of emotions or opinions. It refers to someone who keeps their feelings and thoughts internal rather than displaying them outwardly, often associated with quiet dignity and self-control.
Usage
This word typically carries positive connotations in Chinese culture, suggesting maturity, depth, and self-discipline. It is commonly used to describe someone's personality, behavior, or artistic style. The term is more formal and literary than everyday colloquial speech.
Examples
- 01他性格内敛，不喜欢在公共场合表达自己的想法。, .He has a reserved personality and doesn't like to express his thoughts in public.
- 02这位艺术家的作品风格内敛，充满了深刻的情感。, .This artist's work has an understated style, filled with profound emotion.
Characters
Common collocations
- 性格内敛reserved personality
- 内敛的人a reserved person
- 为人内敛to be reserved as a person
- 风格内敛understated style
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 内 (internal) with 敛 (to restrain/gather), literally meaning 'to restrain inwardly.' The character 敛 originally meant to collect or gather, and evolved to mean restraining or holding back one's expressions.