fishbone; upright and honest
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesnoun
fishbone
literaryLiterary term for a fishbone, most commonly used in the idiom 骨鲠在喉 to describe an uncomfortable feeling of having something stuck in one's throat, often metaphorically referring to an opinion that must be expressed.
He felt like he had a fishbone stuck in his throat, unable to rest until he spoke his mind.
This fish has many tiny bones.
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The figurative meaning of 'a fishbone stuck in the throat' refers to having something that must be said.
adjective
upright and honest; incorruptible and straightforward
literaryDescribes a person, especially an official or scholar, who is principled, refuses to flatter, and dares to speak the truth. Often used in historical or formal literary contexts.
He is an upright minister who dares to speak frankly and offer remonstrance.
An upright spirit is a character that a scholar should possess.
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He is an upright person who never resorts to flattery.
Throughout history, there were many upright ministers who dared to confront powerful nobles.