si1 man4 daam6 ding6斯文淡定
Jyutpingsi1 man4 daam6 ding6
Yalesī màhn daahm dihng
Definition
Gentle, polite, and composed.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
This phrase combines two distinct qualities: 斯文 refers to a gentle, refined, or polite demeanor, while 淡定 highlights an unruffled, steady state of mind. It is often used to compliment someone who handles crises with grace rather than panic. Unlike simply being calm, this implies a level of social polish and maturity.
Examples
They work in a very composed and steady manner, never getting flustered.
Facing so much pressure, how do you manage to stay so calm and composed?
Related words
Common phrases
to appear composed and steady
Common mistake
Do not mistake 斯文 for being weak or timid. While it can mean gentle, in this compound it emphasizes a controlled, professional, or dignified way of acting under pressure.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
