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Jyutpinglim6
Yalelihm

Definition

An old-fashioned women's bow or obeisance.

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How it's used

Refers specifically to a traditional gesture of respect performed by women, involving a slight bending of the knees. It is almost exclusively encountered in historical dramas or when describing period customs. Using it in a modern context would sound extremely archaic or performative.

Examples

She performed a slight curtsy while bowing.
Did people use to curtsy when they met in the past?

Common phrases

to perform a curtsy and adjust one's dress

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 斂, which relates to gathering or restraining, despite the visual similarity in characters. It is a highly specialized term that is not used in everyday social interaction.

Grammar color guide

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