Definition
分寸 (fēn cun) refers to a sense of proportion or tact in how you act or speak — knowing just how far to go. It differs from 尺寸 (chǐ cùn), which can also mean 'propriety' but literally means 'size/dimensions' and is less common in this figurative sense; 规矩 (guī ju) is about following established rules, not personal judgment.
noun
sense of proportionproper measuretact (in behavior or speech)
Examples
- 分寸，。Pīpíng biérén yě yào zhùyì fēn cun, bù néng tài guòfèn.When criticizing others, you also need to have a sense of proportion and not go too far.
- ，。Tā shuōhuà hěn yǒu fēn cun, cónglái bú ràng rén nánkān.He speaks with great tact and never makes anyone feel embarrassed.
- ，分寸。Zài zhè jiàn shì shàng, nǐ yídìng yào bǎwò hǎo fēn cun.On this matter, you absolutely must strike the right balance.
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