内敛

內斂

nèiliǎn

adjective

Meanings

1 introverted; reserved
2 restrained; understated (of artistic style)

Characters

to restrain; to gather in

Examples

他性格内敛,不爱出风头。

Tā xìnggé nèiliǎn, bù ài chū fēngtóu.

He has a reserved personality and doesn't like the spotlight.

这幅画用色内敛,意境深远。

Zhè fú huà yòng sè nèiliǎn, yìjìng shēnyuǎn.

The painting's colors are restrained and its mood is profound.

Tips

usage

Generally positive, suggesting quiet depth rather than timidity. Contrast with 外向 (extroverted) and 张扬 (flashy, attention-seeking).

Stroke Order

内 nèi

敛 liǎn