Definition
怯弱 is a stative verb that combines two related senses: timidity in character and physical weakness. Unlike English, which uses separate words for 'timid' and 'weak', Chinese merges both into one word, often describing a person's overall frail or cowardly nature. You can use it to talk about someone's personality or physical condition.
s.v.
timidcowardlyphysically weakfrail
Examples
- 怯弱，。Tā xìnggé qiè ruò, bù gǎn zài zhòngrén miànqián shuōhuà.He is timid in character and doesn't dare to speak in front of a crowd.
- 怯弱，。Tā bìng hòu shēntǐ qiè ruò, xūyào hǎohǎo xiūxi.After her illness, her body is weak and she needs to rest well.
- 怯弱，。Zhège juésè jì qiè ruò yòu shànliáng, ràng rén tóngqíng.This character is both timid and kind, which makes people sympathize.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.