Definition
谨小慎微 is a four-character idiom (成语) that describes someone so cautious about small details that they become hesitant or afraid to act. It has a mildly negative tone — it implies excessive worry over minor things, leading to inaction. Use it to criticize or express frustration with overly conservative or risk-averse behavior.
f.e.
overcautioustoo cautious to acttimid and hesitant
Examples
- 谨小慎微，。Tā zuò shì zǒngshì jǐn xiǎo shèn wēi, bù gǎn zuò rènhé juédìng.He is always overly cautious about trifles and dares not make any decisions.
- 谨小慎微，。Bié zài jǐn xiǎo shèn wēi le, zhèyàng zhǐ huì cuòguò jīhuì.Stop being so overcautious — you'll only miss opportunities.
- 谨小慎微。Tā de jǐn xiǎo shèn wēi ràng zhěnggè tuánduì jìndù biàn màn.His excessive caution has slowed down the entire team.
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