tough and principled; with a clear conscience
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesadjective
tough and principled; having backbone; unyielding in character
dialectDescribes a person's character emphasizing integrity and refusal to be bullied or compromise one's principles. Commonly used in northern Chinese dialects.
He is very tough in character and never bows down to evil forces.
Although this child is poor, he has a lot of backbone deep down.
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One must be principled as a person and not lack dignity.
adjective
having proper justification; with a clear conscience (especially regarding spending money)
dialectSpecifically refers to feeling justified when spending money or consuming resources because one has earned it through hard work or has a legitimate right to it.
She feels that spending the money she earned herself is with a clear conscience.
Only when eating one's own food does one feel justified.
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This money was earned legally by me, so I spend it with a clear conscience.