jin4 suk6賢淑贤淑
Jyutpingjin4 suk6
Yaleyìhn suhk
Definition
Virtuous, kind, and gentle, as used to describe a woman.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a traditional, somewhat idealized connotation of femininity that emphasizes domestic care and moral character. It is frequently used by older generations to praise a woman's role within the family, though younger speakers might find it slightly old-fashioned or restrictive in modern contexts. It specifically highlights a combination of wisdom and gentle, kind-hearted behavior.
Examples
His wife is very virtuous and always takes care of the family.
What kind of woman do you consider to be wise and virtuous?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to describe men, as it is strictly reserved for women. It is also not typically used to describe professional competence or intellectual brilliance in a workplace setting, as its focus is primarily on personal character and domestic virtue.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
