humble words; obsequious language
Tone colorsmāmámǎmàma
Meanings
1 sense · 5 examplesnoun
humble words; obsequious language
formalUsed in formal or literary contexts to describe language that is intentionally humble, respectful, or deferential, often to show respect to a superior or to appease someone. Sometimes used with a slight negative connotation of excessive flattery or servility.
Tā他
wèi为
le了
dá达
chéng成
xié协
yì议
，
xiàng向
duì对
fāng方
shuō说
jìn尽
bēi卑
cí辞
。
To reach an agreement, he spoke nothing but humble words to the other party.
Zài在
wài外
jiāo交
chǎng场
hé合
，
shǐ使
yòng用
yī一
xiē些
bēi卑
cí辞
shì是
yī一
zhǒng种
lǐ礼
jié节
。
Using some humble language in diplomatic settings is a matter of etiquette.
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Gǔ古
dài代
de的
chén臣
zǐ子
cháng常
cháng常
xiàng向
jūn君
zhǔ主
jìn进
xiàn献
bēi卑
cí辞
yǐ以
biǎo表
zhōng忠
chéng诚
。
Ministers in ancient times often presented humble words to the monarch to show loyalty.
Tā他
de的
qǐng请
qiú求
chōng充
mǎn满
le了
bēi卑
cí辞
hòu厚
lǐ礼
。
His request was filled with humble words and generous gifts.
Bú不
yào要
bèi被
tā他
de的
bēi卑
cí辞
suǒ所
mí迷
huò惑
，
tā他
kě可
néng能
yǒu有
qí其
tā他
mù目
dì的
。
Don't be fooled by his obsequious language; he may have ulterior motives.