hide the tip of the brush; hide one's talents
Meanings
2 senses · 4 examplesverb
to hide the brush tip; to conceal the starting/ending stroke
literaryA calligraphy technique where the tip of the brush is turned inward at the beginning or end of a stroke, creating a rounded, subtle, and restrained effect. Contrasts with '露锋' (lù fēng).
Yan Zhenqing's regular script often uses the 'hiding the tip' technique, appearing subtle and solid.
The character for 'one' starts and ends with the brush tip hidden.
verb
to hide one's sharpness; to conceal one's abilities
literaryA classical/literary term describing a strategy of humility or prudence, often used in the context of '藏锋守拙' (cáng fēng shǒu zhuō - hide one's sharpness and keep to simplicity).
He is a low-key person, well-versed in the art of hiding his sharpness and maintaining simplicity.
In complex workplace environments, sometimes one needs to hide one's edge and wait for the right moment.