be discreet in speech and action; cautious in words and deeds
Tone colorsmāmámǎmàma
Meanings
1 sense · 3 examplesidiom
to be cautious and careful in what one says and does; to be discreet in speech and action
formalA formal four-character idiom (成语) emphasizing prudence and self-restraint in both speech and conduct. Often used as advice for those in positions of responsibility or in sensitive social situations.
Lǐng领
dǎo导
gàn干
bù部
yào要
jǐn谨
yán言
shèn慎
xíng行
，
yǐ以
shēn身
zuò作
zé则
。
Leading cadres must be cautious in their words and actions, setting an example through their own conduct.
Zài在
zhè这
zhǒng种
mǐn敏
gǎn感
shí时
qī期
，
wǒ我
men们
gèng更
yīng应
gāi该
jǐn谨
yán言
shèn慎
xíng行
。
During such a sensitive period, we should be even more careful about what we say and do.
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Tā他
wéi为
rén人
dī低
diào调
，
jǐn谨
yán言
shèn慎
xíng行
，
shēn深
dé得
tóng同
shì事
men们
de的
xìn信
rèn任
。
He keeps a low profile, is discreet in speech and action, and has earned the deep trust of his colleagues.