矮小精悍

ǎixiǎo-jīnghàn
idiom

Meanings

  1. 1 short in stature but tough and capable
  2. 2 small but fierce
  3. 3 a pint-sized powerhouse

Examples

HSK 7-9
Tā suīrán ǎixiǎo-jīnghàn, dàn qiújì chūzhòng.
Though small and wiry, he has outstanding ball-handling skills.
HSK 7-9
Zhè wèi jiāngjūn ǎixiǎo-jīnghàn, zuòzhàn yǒngměng.
This general was small but fierce, brave in combat.

Tips

usage
Always positive - describes someone whose physical smallness is offset by capability, tenacity, or sharpness. Often applied to athletes, soldiers, or commanders. Don't use it for someone you mean to belittle.

Stroke Order

矮 ǎi
小 xiǎo
精 jīng
悍 hàn