怯 (qiè) - timid, cowardly, nervous, afraid & rustic, unsophisticated

怯Tone 4

qiè ｜ 8 strokes ｜ radical: 忄

器情

怯 · qiè

timid, cowardly, nervous, afraid;

rustic, unsophisticated

timid, cowardly, nervous, afraidrustic, unsophisticated

Usage highlights

timidstage frightshy with strangerscowardlyfear of hardshiprustic

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He felt timid and dared not speak (怯怯不敢言).
  • She is afraid of meeting strangers (怯生).
  • The child is shy around new people (这孩子怯场).
  • He lacks confidence and is too timid (胆怯).

Collocations

  • timid(胆怯)
  • stage fright(怯场)
  • shy with strangers(怯生)
  • cowardly(怯懦)
  • fear of hardship(怯苦)
  • rustic(怯弱)

Idioms

  • Timid as a mouse(胆小如鼠)
  • Lacking in courage and indecisive(怯勇寡断)
  • Fear the strong and bully the weak(怯强凌弱)
  • Appear timid and overcautious(怯声怯气)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In traditional Chinese culture, '怯' represents a negative character trait, often contrasted with courage and bravery.
  • The character combines the heart/mind radical (忄) with 去 (to go), suggesting the heart/mind wants to flee or avoid.
  • In performance arts, '怯场' (stage fright) is a common concern for performers.

FAQ