him1謙谦
Jyutpinghim1
Yalehīm
Definition
Modest and humble; keeping a low profile and not showing off one's talents.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Often used in the phrase 謙虛 to describe someone who does not boast about their achievements. It carries a positive connotation of being grounded and respectful towards others. When someone pays you a compliment and you want to deflect it politely, this is the go-to concept to express that you are not as great as they say.
Examples
He is a very modest person and never shows off.
Why are you being so modest? You clearly did the best.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 謙 with 虛偽, which means hypocritical or fake. While being modest is a virtue, being overly modest can sometimes be perceived as insincere if the situation clearly calls for confidence.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
