Definitions

qiān (adjective) modest; humble

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Simplified form of .

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

Etymologically, the character '谦' derives from the association between speech and humble demeanor, structured with a semantic component related to language and a phonetic element, as seen in its traditional form '謙' where the left radical explicitly denotes speech while the right component '兼' provides sound and subtly implies inclusive or balanced communication that aligns with modest expression. Over time, the character's core meaning of humility and deferential conduct has remained stable, with the simplified form '谦' adapting the speech radical graphically while retaining the original structural and semantic integrity.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

他是一个虚的人。

Tā shì yīgè qiānxū de rén.

He is a modest person.

虚是一种美德。

Qiānxū shì yī zhǒng měidé.

Modesty is a virtue.

我们应该虚学习。

Wǒmen yīnggāi qiānxū xuéxí.

We should learn modestly.

虚地接受了批评。

Tā qiānxū de jiēshòule pīpíng.

He modestly accepted the criticism.

让的行为让人尊敬。

Qiānràng de xíngwéi ràng rén zūnjìng.

Humble behavior commands respect.

在成功时保持逊很重要。

Zài chénggōng shí bǎochí qiānxùn hěn zhòngyào.

It is important to remain humble when successful.

与其骄傲自满,不如虚谨慎。

Yǔqí jiāo'ào zìmǎn, bùrú qiānxū jǐnshèn.

Rather than being arrogant and complacent, it is better to be modest and cautious.

他的和态度促进了团队合作。

Tā de qiānhé tàidù cùjìnle tuánduì hézuò.

His modest and gentle attitude promoted teamwork.