jim5儼俨
Jyutpingjim5
Yaleyíhm
Definition
Solemn, grave, and dignified.
writtendescriptionspeople
How it's used
This character is primarily used as a morpheme in formal or literary compounds rather than as a standalone adjective in daily speech. When used to describe a person's demeanor, it conveys a sense of imposing gravity or strictness that commands respect or creates distance. It is much less common than 嚴肅 and is often reserved for written contexts or specific descriptions of a stern personality.
Examples
He speaks so solemnly that the atmosphere has become very tense.
There is no need to be so grave in life, just relax a bit.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 嚴, which is the standard character for strict or serious. Using 儼 in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or archaic, as it carries a more literary weight than the everyday 嚴肅.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
