有分寸

yǒufēncùn

phrase #26,364

Meanings

1 to know one's limits
2 to be tactful
3 to be measured in speech or behavior
4 to know when to stop

Characters

fraction, portion

inch (Chinese unit); small measure

Examples

他说话很有分寸，从不让人难堪。

Tā shuōhuà hěn yǒu fēncùn, cóng bù ràng rén nánkān.

He is very measured in his speech and never puts anyone in an awkward position.

做事要有分寸，别走极端。

Zuòshì yào yǒu fēncùn, bié zǒu jíduān.

Be measured in what you do and don't go to extremes.

Tips

usage

分寸 literally means a fraction of an inch — the idea is knowing exactly how much is appropriate. 有分寸 is a positive quality in Chinese social culture, indicating emotional intelligence and propriety.

Stroke Order

有 yǒu

分 fēn

寸 cùn