outwardly dull but inwardly intelligent; unassuming wisdom
Tone colorsmāmámǎmàma
Meanings
1 sense · 3 examplesadjective
outwardly rough, clumsy, or dull but actually intelligent, thoughtful, and attentive to detail
Describes a person who does not appear refined or clever on the surface but possesses genuine intelligence and sensitivity. Often carries a complimentary tone, highlighting hidden depth.
Tā他
kàn看
qǐ起
lái来
hěn很
lǎo老
shi实
，
qí其
shí实
hěn很
nèi内
xiù秀
，
shén什
me么
wèn问
tí题
dōu都
kàn看
de得
tòu透
chè彻
。
He looks quite simple and honest, but he's actually very thoughtful and sees through every issue.
Bié别
kàn看
tā他
píng平
shí时
bù不
zěn怎
me么
shuō说
huà话
，
rén人
jiā家
kě可
nèi内
xiù秀
zhe着
ne呢
，
xīn心
li里
yǒu有
shù数
。
Don't be fooled by his quiet demeanor—he's actually very perceptive and knows exactly what's going on.
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Nèi内
xiù秀
de的
rén人
wǎng往
wǎng往
bù不
shàn善
yú于
biǎo表
dá达
zì自
jǐ己
，
dàn但
zuò做
shì事
tè特
bié别
kào靠
pǔ谱
。
People who are quietly intelligent are often not good at expressing themselves, but they are especially reliable when it comes to getting things done.