淡 (dàn) - light & pale

淡Tone 4

dàn ｜ 11 strokes ｜ radical:

橙丁

淡 · dàn

light;

pale;

thin;

weak;

bland;

tasteless;

indifferent;

cool;

not dense;

simple;

to fade

lightpalethin

Usage highlights

light colorbland tastepale makeupindifferent attitudelight blueweak tea

Synonyms

  • 浅— shallow; light (in color)
  • 薄— thin; weak
  • 稀— diluted; sparse

Antonyms

  • 浓— thick; strong; concentrated
  • 深— deep; dark (in color)
  • 咸— salty (opposite of bland)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The tea is too weak (茶太淡).
  • She prefers light makeup (淡妆).
  • He has a calm and indifferent attitude (态度淡然).
  • The color is fading (颜色变淡了).

Collocations

  • light color(淡色)
  • bland taste(淡味)
  • pale makeup(淡妆)
  • indifferent attitude(淡然)
  • light blue(淡蓝)
  • weak tea(淡茶)

Idioms

  • Light words and few smiles(淡言寡笑)
  • Light breeze and bright moon(淡风明月)
  • Indifferent to fame and wealth(淡泊名利)
  • Light as water(淡如水)
  • Light makeup and simple attire(淡妆素裹)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Taoist philosophy, '淡' represents the ideal state of non-action and simplicity, as expressed in the saying '淡泊明志' (indifference to fame reveals one's true aspirations).
  • In traditional Chinese medicine and dietetics, '淡' foods are considered beneficial for health, helping to maintain balance and prevent illness.
  • In Chinese aesthetics, '淡' is valued as an elegant, understated beauty that suggests depth and refinement rather than overt display.

FAQ