Definition
冒昧 (mào mèi) describes words or actions that are presumptuous, but it's used as a polite apology for being forward — in phrases like '冒昧地问一下' (to take the liberty of asking). Unlike 放肆 (impudent), which is harsh criticism, 冒昧 is humble and self-deprecating. It also contrasts with neutral 大胆 (bold), as 冒昧 always implies the speaker may be overstepping.
adjective
presumptuousbold (of behavior or speech)(used adverbially in polite phrases) to take the liberty of doing something
Examples
- 冒昧。Qǐng yǔnxǔ wǒ mào mèi de wèn yí ge wèntí.Please allow me to take the liberty of asking a question.
- 冒昧，。mào mèi de dǎrǎo nín, zhēn shì bù hǎoyìsi.I'm sorry to take the liberty of disturbing you.
- 冒昧，。Qǐng yuánliàng wǒ de mào mèi, dàn wǒ bìxū shuō chū zhēnxiàng.Please forgive my presumption, but I must speak the truth.
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