讳
avoid speaking; taboo; avoid naming elders
Meanings
4 senses · 16 examplesverb
to avoid speaking due to scruples; to taboo
formalUsed for both voluntary taboo and forced avoidance of sensitive topics.
He pointed out the company's problems frankly without holding back.
Everyone has taboos on this topic and is unwilling to talk about it much.
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This book conceals that shameful period of history.
Some elderly people taboo breaking things during the Spring Festival.
He never avoids talking about his own mistakes.
noun
taboo subject; forbidden matter
neutralRefers to a topic or action that people avoid due to tradition, etiquette or personal scruples.
Don't mention this matter in front of him; it's his taboo.
The death of religious leaders was once a major taboo in medieval Europe.
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Talking about salaries in the workplace is often a shared taboo for everyone.
He exposed the other party's taboo in public, making the scene very awkward.
Parents need to learn their children's taboos to avoid offending them unintentionally.
verb
to avoid naming emperors or elders
archaicA traditional etiquette term used in feudal society to show respect for rulers and senior family members.
Ancient scholars needed to avoid directly using the emperor's given name.
To avoid using his father's given name, he changed his courtesy name.
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In official documents, officials must strictly avoid using the current emperor's era name.
Several characters in this ancient book were modified due to taboo issues.
noun
surname Hui
neutralA rare Chinese surname.
Teacher Hui is a special-grade Chinese teacher in our school.
I know an elderly man surnamed Hui who collects many antiques.