Definition
清高 describes a person who considers themselves morally superior and aloof from worldly or vulgar matters. The word carries a double edge: it can be a genuine compliment for someone who stays uncorrupted by petty concerns, or a mild criticism for someone who is self-righteously detached from ordinary life. The tone depends heavily on context and the speaker's intent.
s.v.
morally loftyrefusing to compromise one's principles with worldly matters(sometimes derogatory) self-righteously alooflooking down on ordinary pursuits
Examples
- 清高，。Tā zhège rén tài qīng gāo, bú yuànyì gēn wǒmen láiwǎng.He's too aloof — not willing to socialize with us.
- 清高，。Suīrán tā xìnggé qīng gāo, dàn dàjiā dōu jìngpèi tā de zhèngzhí.Although she has an aloof personality, everyone admires her integrity.
- 清高，。Gǔdài wénrén chángcháng yǐ qīng gāo zìjū, bú yuàn cānyù guānchǎng dòuzhēng.Ancient literati often regarded themselves as lofty and detached, unwilling to take part in court intrigues.
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