靦 (tiǎn) - bashful, shy, ashamed & also refers to a timid or embarrassed facial

靦Tone 3

tiǎn ｜ 16 strokes ｜ radical:

檀婷

靦 · tiǎn

bashful, shy, ashamed;

also refers to a timid or embarrassed facial expression

bashful, shy, ashamedalso refers to a timid or embarrassed facial

Usage highlights

shy and timidbashful expressionappear embarrassedtimid appearanceshy personalityfeel ashamed

Synonyms

  • 羞— shy, bashful
  • 腼— bashful, shy
  • 忸怩— bashful, blushing

Antonyms

  • 大方— generous, unrestrained
  • 豪放— bold and unconstrained
  • 开朗— cheerful, outgoing

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He felt shy and embarrassed (靦腆).
  • She appeared bashful before the guests (面有靦色).
  • Don't be shy, speak up (不要靦腆, 大胆说出来).
  • He showed a timid expression (面露靦颜).

Collocations

  • shy and timid(靦腆)
  • bashful expression(靦颜)
  • appear embarrassed(面有靦色)
  • timid appearance(靦貌)
  • shy personality(靦性)
  • feel ashamed(靦愧)

Idioms

  • Shy and timid in manner(靦腆不安)
  • Too embarrassed to show one's face(靦颜人世)
  • Bashful and reserved(靦靦腆腆)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • The character combines 'face' (面) and 'see' (見), suggesting the concept of 'showing face' or facial expression related to shyness.
  • Often used in classical Chinese literature to describe characters who are modest, reserved, or easily embarrassed.
  • In traditional Chinese culture, moderate shyness was sometimes viewed as a virtue, especially in women and scholars.

FAQ