控えめな 30 सेकंड में
- Modest, reserved, or moderate in behavior, appearance, or intensity.
- Understated, low-key, and not flashy or extreme.
- Often implies humility, politeness, and a lack of boastfulness.
- Can describe people, things, actions, or even quantities.
- Simple
- It means not showing off or being too bold. It's about being humble, gentle, or not excessive.
- For Learners
- When someone is 控えめな (hikaeme na), they don't draw too much attention to themselves. They are polite and don't make big claims or demands.
- Detailed
- The adjective 控えめな (hikaeme na) describes a quality of being reserved, understated, or moderate. It can apply to a person's personality, behavior, appearance, or even the intensity of something. A person described as 控えめな is typically humble, not boastful, and tends to avoid being the center of attention. In terms of possessions or actions, 控えめな suggests something is not extravagant, excessive, or ostentatious, but rather sensible and balanced.
- Academic
- 控えめな (hikaeme na) functions as an adjective signifying a disposition or characteristic of reticence, modesty, and a lack of ostentation. It denotes a quality of moderation in expression, behavior, or presentation, precluding excessive displays or overt assertiveness. This term is employed to characterize individuals who exhibit humility and avoid self-aggrandizement, as well as to describe phenomena that are understated, restrained, or quantitatively limited, implying a deliberate avoidance of extravagance or immoderation.
彼女はいつも控えめな服装をしている。 (Kanojo wa itsumo hikaeme na fukusou o shite iru.)
控えめな意見を述べた。 (Hikaeme na iken o nobeta.)
控えめな目標を設定した。 (Hikaeme na mokuhyou o settei shita.)
彼の態度は控えめだった。 (Kare no taido wa hikaeme datta.)
控えめな色合いの壁紙を選んだ。 (Hikaeme na iroai no kabegami o eranda.)
- Describing People
- You can use 控えめな to describe someone's personality or behavior. This implies they are not loud, assertive, or attention-seeking. They are often seen as polite, humble, and thoughtful. For example, someone who speaks softly, avoids boasting about their achievements, or doesn't interrupt others might be described as 控えめな.
- Describing Appearance and Style
- 控えめな is perfect for describing clothing, colors, or decor that are not flashy or extravagant. It suggests a preference for simplicity, elegance, and a lack of ostentation. A 控えめな outfit would be one that is tasteful and understated, perhaps using neutral colors or simple designs, rather than bright patterns or revealing styles. Similarly, 控えめな colors in a room create a calm and serene atmosphere.
- Describing Actions and Opinions
- When referring to someone's opinions, suggestions, or contributions, 控えめな indicates that they are not forceful, demanding, or overly assertive. They might offer their thoughts gently or propose modest goals. For instance, a 控えめな proposal might be one that is practical and realistic, avoiding ambitious or potentially unachievable ideas. This also applies to actions; a 控えめな action is one that is done without drawing undue attention or making a grand gesture.
- Describing Quantities and Intensity
- 控えめな can also describe something that is moderate in amount or intensity. This could refer to a small portion of food, a subtle flavor, or a low level of something. For example, you might ask for a 控えめな portion of rice if you're not very hungry. A 控えめな scent is one that is not overpowering. It suggests a balanced and controlled measure, avoiding extremes.
- In contrast to assertiveness
- It's important to distinguish 控えめな from being timid or lacking confidence. While a 控えめな person might be quiet, they are not necessarily shy or afraid to speak up. They simply choose to do so in a less assertive or ostentatious manner. It's a conscious choice to maintain a certain level of reserve and politeness, rather than an inability to be more direct.
彼は控えめな性格で、あまり自分を前に出さない。 (Kare wa hikaeme na seikaku de, amari jibun o mae ni dasanai.)
そのレストランでは、控えめな味付けの料理が人気だ。 (Sono resutoran de wa, hikaeme na aji tsuke no ryouri ga ninki da.)
控えめな期待を持つことは、失望を避けるのに役立つ。 (Hikaeme na kitai o motsu koto wa, shitsubou o sakeru no ni yakudatsu.)
彼女は控えめな寄付をした。 (Kanojo wa hikaeme na kifu o shita.)
控えめな光沢のある生地を選んだ。 (Hikaeme na koutaku no aru kiji o eranda.)
- Everyday Conversations
- You'll often hear 控えめな in casual conversations when people are describing others' personalities. For instance, someone might say, "My colleague is very 控えめな; she never talks about her own accomplishments." It's a common way to express admiration for someone's humility.
- Fashion and Interior Design
- In discussions about aesthetics, 控えめな is frequently used. A fashion critic might describe a designer's collection as having 控えめな elegance, meaning it's sophisticated without being flashy. Interior designers might recommend 控えめな color palettes for creating a calm and peaceful living space.
- Business and Professional Settings
- In business, 控えめな can describe a modest approach to proposals, marketing, or even financial projections. A company might present 控えめな sales targets to demonstrate a realistic and prudent strategy. It can also describe a professional's demeanor, suggesting they are respectful and not overly aggressive.
- Food and Drink
- When talking about flavors or portions, 控えめな is used to indicate moderation. A chef might offer a dish with 控えめな spices for those who prefer subtle tastes. You might also hear someone say they want a 控えめな amount of sugar in their coffee.
- Social Etiquette
- Japanese social etiquette often emphasizes harmony and avoiding conflict. Therefore, expressing opinions in a 控えめな way is highly valued. When disagreeing, people might use phrases that are 控えめな to soften the opposition and maintain good relations.
新しいプロジェクトの目標は、控えめなものから始めるべきだ。 (Atarashii purojekuto no mokuhyou wa, hikaeme na mono kara hajimeru beki da.)
彼女の才能は控えめだが、着実に成果を上げている。 (Kanojo no sainou wa hikaeme da ga, chakujitsu ni seika o agete iru.)
控えめな色使いのネクタイが、彼のスーツによく合っていた。 (Hikaeme na irozukai no nekutai ga, kare no suutsu ni yoku atte ita.)
控えめな香りの香水は、オフィスでも使いやすい。 (Hikaeme na kaori no kousui wa, ofisu demo tsukaiyasui.)
控えめな発言でしたが、その場の雰囲気を和らげました。 (Hikaeme na hatsugen deshita ga, sono ba no fun'iki o yawaragemashita.)
- Confusing with 'Timid' or 'Shy'
- A common mistake is to equate 控えめな (hikaeme na) directly with being timid or shy. While there can be overlap, 控えめな implies a conscious choice to be modest or reserved, often stemming from politeness or humility. Timidity or shyness might suggest a lack of confidence or social anxiety. A 控えめな person can be confident but chooses not to be boastful, whereas a timid person might struggle to express themselves even if they want to.
- Overusing in Negative Contexts
- While 控えめな can describe something that is not excessive, it's not always a negative connotation. Sometimes learners might incorrectly use it to imply something is lacking or insufficient when the intention is simply moderation. For example, saying a meal was 控えめな might be interpreted as 'small' or 'not enough' rather than 'simply seasoned' or 'a moderate portion'. The context is key.
- Applying to Situations Requiring Assertiveness
- In situations where assertiveness or directness is required, using 控えめな might be inappropriate. For instance, in a negotiation or when expressing a strong opinion against injustice, a 控えめな approach might be seen as indecisive or not taking a firm stance. It's important to understand when a more direct approach is needed.
- Misinterpreting Cultural Nuances
- In Japanese culture, modesty is often praised. However, in some Western cultures, being too 控えめな might be perceived as a lack of confidence or leadership potential. Learners should be aware that the perception of 控えめな can vary across cultures. What is considered appropriately modest in Japan might be seen as understated to the point of being unassertive elsewhere.
- Grammatical Errors
- As 控えめな is an adjective, it needs to be used correctly with nouns. Ensure it precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb like だ (da) or です (desu). Forgetting the な (na) particle when directly modifying a noun is a common grammatical slip-up for learners.
間違い: 彼は控えめな人だ。 (Incorrect if meant shy) 正しい: 彼は控えめな性格だが、芯は強い。 (Kare wa hikaeme na seikaku da ga, shin wa tsuyoi.) - He has a reserved personality, but he is strong-willed.
間違い: 控えめな味は好きじゃない。(Hikaeme na aji wa suki janai.) - This could imply a dislike for subtle flavors, which might not be the intent. Correct: 私はもっとはっきりした味付けが好きです。(Watashi wa motto hakkiri shita ajitsuke ga suki desu.) - I prefer more distinct flavors.
間違い: 彼は控えめな意見を言った。(Hikaeme na iken o itta.) - If the situation required a strong stance, this might be perceived negatively. Correct: 彼は自分の意見をはっきり述べた。(Kare wa jibun no iken o hakkiri nobeta.) - He clearly stated his opinion.
間違い: 控えめな服を着てください。(Hikaeme na fuku o kite kudasai.) - This could be misunderstood as telling someone to wear something bland or unattractive. Correct: シンプルな服を着てください。(Shinpuru na fuku o kite kudasai.) - Please wear simple clothes.
間違い: 控えめな目標は達成しやすい。(Hikaeme na mokuhyou wa tassei shiyasui.) - While potentially true, it might sound discouraging. Correct: 現実的な目標は達成しやすい。(Genjitsu teki na mokuhyou wa tassei shiyasui.) - Realistic goals are easy to achieve.
- 慎ましい (tsutsumashii)
- Both 控えめな and 慎ましい describe modesty and humility. 慎ましい often carries a stronger sense of being demure, discreet, and perhaps even a bit old-fashioned, particularly when describing women. 控えめな is more versatile and can apply to personality, behavior, and even the intensity of something.
Usage:
控えめな: 控えめな性格 (hikaeme na seikaku - modest personality), 控えめな色 (hikaeme na iro - modest color).
慎ましい: 慎ましい暮らし (tsutsumashii kurashi - modest lifestyle), 慎ましい女性 (tsutsumashii josei - demure woman). - 地味な (jimi na)
- 地味な means plain, subdued, or understated, often referring to appearance, colors, or style. It's similar to 控えめな when describing clothing or decor that isn't flashy. However, 地味な can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of being boring or unremarkable, whereas 控えめな is generally more positive or neutral, implying tastefulness.
Usage:
控えめな: 控えめなデザイン (hikaeme na dezain - understated design).
地味な: 地味な服 (jimi na fuku - plain clothes), 地味な色 (jimi na iro - subdued color). - 静かな (shizuka na)
- 静かな means quiet, calm, or peaceful. It can overlap with 控えめな when describing a person's demeanor or a quiet atmosphere. However, 静かな focuses more on the absence of noise or disturbance, while 控えめな focuses on a lack of assertiveness or ostentation. A person can be 静かな without necessarily being 控えめな (e.g., a quiet observer), and vice versa (e.g., a person who speaks softly but has strong opinions).
Usage:
控えめな: 控えめな態度 (hikaeme na taido - reserved attitude).
静かな: 静かな場所 (shizuka na basho - quiet place), 静かな人 (shizuka na hito - quiet person). - 上品な (jouhin na)
- 上品な means elegant, refined, or graceful. It shares common ground with 控えめな when describing tastefulness and a lack of gaudiness. A 控えめな style can often be described as 上品な. However, 上品な specifically emphasizes refinement and good taste, which might not always be the primary focus of 控えめな.
Usage:
控えめな: 控えめな装飾 (hikaeme na soushoku - understated decoration).
上品な: 上品な言葉遣い (jouhin na kotobazukai - elegant speech), 上品なデザイン (jouhin na dezain - elegant design). - つつましい (tsutsumashii)
- つつましい is very similar to 慎ましい and emphasizes living modestly, often in terms of finances or lifestyle. It implies contentment with less and avoiding extravagance. While 控えめな can describe a modest lifestyle, つつましい specifically focuses on the economic or material aspect of modesty.
Usage:
控えめな: 控えめな収入 (hikaeme na shuunyuu - modest income).
つつましい: つつましい生活 (tsutsumashii seikatsu - frugal life), つつましい食事 (tsutsumashii shokuji - simple meal).
控えめな vs. 地味な: A 控えめな dress is tasteful and understated. A 地味な dress is plain and perhaps uninteresting.
控えめな vs. 静かな: A 控えめな person might speak softly but still be assertive. A 静かな person is simply not loud.
控えめな vs. 上品な: A 控えめな design is not flashy. An 上品な design is elegant and refined.
控えめな vs. 慎ましい: Both imply modesty. 慎ましい often has a stronger sense of demureness or discretion.
控えめな vs. つつましい: つつましい specifically refers to living modestly, often in terms of material possessions.
How Formal Is It?
रोचक तथ्य
The kanji 控 (hikikō) itself means to control, restrain, or hold back. This root meaning perfectly captures the essence of being modest or not excessive.
उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका
- Pronouncing the 'ki' sound too hard.
- Not emphasizing the second syllable enough.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding English words.
कठिनाई स्तर
Understanding the nuance of 控えめな requires context. While the literal meaning is straightforward, its cultural implications and subtle variations can make reading comprehension challenging.
आगे क्या सीखें
पूर्वापेक्षाएँ
आगे सीखें
उन्नत
ज़रूरी व्याकरण
Using な-adjectives (na-adjectives)
控えめな is a na-adjective. It requires な when directly modifying a noun (e.g., 控えめな色) but does not when used with です/だ after a noun (e.g., 性格は控えめです。).
Adverbial form
The adverbial form '控えめに' (hikaeme ni) is used to modify verbs, indicating an action is done in a modest or reserved manner (e.g., 彼は控えめに笑った - He smiled modestly).
Comparison with other adjectives
Comparing 控えめな (modest) with 派手な (flashy) helps understand the spectrum of descriptors for appearance or personality.
Using conjunctions with 控えめな
控えめながらも (hikaeme nagara mo - while being modest) can connect two contrasting ideas (e.g., 控えめながらも、その意見は重要だった - While modest, that opinion was important).
Particles with adjectives
When 控えめな modifies a noun that is the subject or object, standard particles like が (ga) or を (o) are used (e.g., 控えめな色が好きです - I like modest colors; 控えめな色を選びました - I chose modest colors).
स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण
これは控えめな色です。
This is a modest color.
控えめな modifies 色 (iro - color).
控えめな音でお願いします。
Please make the sound modest/low.
控えめな modifies 音 (oto - sound).
控えめな味です。
It's a modest taste.
控えめな modifies 味 (aji - taste).
控えめな人です。
They are a modest person.
控えめな modifies 人 (hito - person).
控えめな光です。
It's a modest light.
控えめな modifies 光 (hikari - light).
控えめな態度。
A modest attitude.
控えめな modifies 態度 (taido - attitude).
控えめな量。
A modest amount.
控えめな modifies 量 (ryou - amount).
控えめなデザイン。
A modest design.
控えめな modifies デザイン (dezain - design).
彼女は控えめな性格なので、あまり自分を主張しない。
She has a modest personality, so she doesn't assert herself much.
控えめな modifies 性格 (seikaku - personality).
この部屋は控えめな色で統一されている。
This room is unified with modest colors.
控えめな modifies 色 (iro - color).
控えめな目標を設定しました。
We set modest goals.
控えめな modifies 目標 (mokuhyou - goals).
控えめな香りの香水を選んだ。
I chose a perfume with a subtle scent.
控えめな modifies 香り (kaori - scent).
控えめな装飾が、かえって上品に見える。
The understated decoration, on the contrary, looks elegant.
控えめな modifies 装飾 (soushoku - decoration).
彼は控えめな寄付をしてくれた。
He made a modest donation.
控えめな modifies 寄付 (kifu - donation).
控えめな音量で音楽を聴いています。
I am listening to music at a low volume.
控えめな modifies 音量 (onryou - volume).
控えめな歩き方で、彼は会場に入ってきた。
With a reserved way of walking, he entered the venue.
控えめな modifies 歩き方 (arukikata - way of walking).
彼女は控えめな発言で、会議の雰囲気を和らげた。
With her reserved remarks, she eased the atmosphere of the meeting.
控えめな modifies 発言 (hatsugen - remarks).
控えめな期待を持つことは、失望を避けるための賢明な方法だ。
Having modest expectations is a wise way to avoid disappointment.
控えめな modifies 期待 (kitai - expectations).
そのブランドは、控えめながらも洗練されたデザインで知られている。
That brand is known for its understated yet sophisticated design.
控えめながらも (hikaeme nagara mo - while being understated) modifies デザイン (dezain - design).
彼は控えめな態度で、誰に対しても丁寧に接する。
With a reserved attitude, he treats everyone politely.
控えめな modifies 態度 (taido - attitude).
控えめな色合いのカーテンが、部屋に落ち着きを与えている。
The curtains with their subtle color tones are giving the room a sense of calm.
控えめな modifies 色合い (iroai - color tone).
控えめな味付けの料理は、素材本来の味を引き立てる。
Dishes with subtle seasoning bring out the original flavor of the ingredients.
控えめな modifies 味付け (ajitsuke - seasoning).
控えめな成長率であっても、着実な進歩は評価されるべきだ。
Even with a modest growth rate, steady progress should be appreciated.
控えめな modifies 成長率 (seichouritsu - growth rate).
彼女の控えめな美しさは、多くの人々を魅了する。
Her understated beauty captivates many people.
控えめな modifies 美しさ (utsukushisa - beauty).
彼の控えめな振る舞いは、多くの場面で好感を持たれる。
His reserved demeanor is well-received in many situations.
控えめな modifies 振る舞い (furumai - demeanor/behavior).
控えめな表現を使うことで、相手への配慮を示すことができる。
By using understated expressions, one can show consideration for the other person.
控えめな modifies 表現 (hyougen - expression).
控えめな投資戦略は、長期的な安定を目指す場合に有効である。
A conservative investment strategy is effective when aiming for long-term stability.
控えめな modifies 投資戦略 (toushi senryaku - investment strategy).
その劇作家は、登場人物の内面を控えめな筆致で描き出した。
The playwright depicted the inner lives of the characters with an understated touch.
控えめな modifies 筆致 (hitchi - brushstroke/writing style).
控えめな光沢のある生地は、フォーマルな場面に適している。
Fabric with a subtle sheen is suitable for formal occasions.
控えめな modifies 光沢 (koutaku - sheen/luster).
控えめな発言であっても、その影響力は無視できないものだった。
Even though it was a modest statement, its influence could not be ignored.
控えめな modifies 発言 (hatsugen - statement).
現代アートにおいては、控えめな表現が逆に強いメッセージとなることがある。
In contemporary art, understated expression can conversely become a strong message.
控えめな modifies 表現 (hyougen - expression).
控えめな努力の積み重ねが、やがて大きな成果につながる。
The accumulation of modest efforts eventually leads to great results.
控えめな modifies 努力 (doryoku - effort).
彼の作品には、控えめながらも確固たる信念が貫かれている。
His works are imbued with a firm conviction, despite their understated nature.
控えめながらも (hikaeme nagara mo - while being understated) modifies 信念 (shinnen - conviction).
控えめな言葉遣いの中に、深い教養と人間性が垣間見える。
Within the modest choice of words, deep learning and humanity can be glimpsed.
控えめな modifies 言葉遣い (kotobazukai - choice of words/diction).
地域社会への貢献は、しばしば控えめな形で行われる。
Contributions to the local community are often made in understated ways.
控えめな modifies 形 (katachi - form/way).
控えめな色彩設計は、鑑賞者の感情に直接訴えかけることを意図していない。
The understated color design does not intend to directly appeal to the viewer's emotions.
控えめな modifies 色彩設計 (shikisai sekkei - color design).
控えめな主張であっても、その論理的な整合性は高く評価された。
Even though it was a modest assertion, its logical consistency was highly praised.
控えめな modifies 主張 (shuchou - assertion).
彼は、自己顕示欲を抑えた控えめな生き方を貫いている。
He maintains a reserved way of life, suppressing his desire for self-display.
控えめな modifies 生き方 (ikikata - way of life).
控えめな予算配分ながらも、プロジェクトは着実に前進している。
Despite the modest budget allocation, the project is steadily advancing.
控えめな modifies 予算配分 (yosan haibun - budget allocation).
その建築様式は、周囲の景観に溶け込むような控えめなデザインが特徴だ。
That architectural style is characterized by a subtle design that blends into the surrounding landscape.
控えめな modifies デザイン (dezain - design).
彼は、自己の功績を控えめに語ることで、かえってその偉大さを示唆していた。
By speaking of his achievements modestly, he paradoxically suggested their greatness.
控えめに (hikaeme ni - adverbial form) modifies 語る (kataru - to speak/tell).
その文学作品は、登場人物の心理描写において、一切の誇張を排した控えめな表現を特徴とする。
That literary work is characterized by understated expression, devoid of any exaggeration, in its depiction of the characters' psychology.
控えめな modifies 表現 (hyougen - expression).
控えめな経済成長予測は、市場の過熱を防ぎ、持続可能な発展を促すための布石となりうる。
Modest economic growth forecasts can serve as a prelude to preventing market overheating and promoting sustainable development.
控えめな modifies 経済成長予測 (keizai seichou yosoku - economic growth forecast).
彼女の芸術は、感情の爆発ではなく、抑制された筆致による控えめな表現の中に、むしろ深い感動を呼び起こす。
Her art, rather than an explosion of emotion, evokes deep emotion through understated expression with restrained brushwork.
控えめな modifies 表現 (hyougen - expression).
その都市計画は、景観への影響を最小限に抑えるための、極めて控えめなアプローチを採用している。
That urban plan adopts an extremely subtle approach to minimize its impact on the landscape.
控えめな modifies アプローチ (apuroochi - approach).
控えめな出費で生活することは、経済的な自立を達成するための重要な要素である。
Living with modest expenditures is an important element for achieving financial independence.
控えめな modifies 出費 (shuppi - expenditure/spending).
彼のスピーチは、自己賛美に陥ることなく、聴衆に静かに、しかし力強く語りかけた。
His speech, without falling into self-praise, spoke to the audience quietly yet powerfully.
This sentence uses a slightly different structure but conveys the essence of 控えめな behavior. The implied meaning is that his speech was not boastful, hence '控えめな'.
控えめな改良の積み重ねが、長期的には劇的な変化をもたらすことがある。
The accumulation of modest improvements can, in the long run, bring about dramatic change.
控えめな modifies 改良 (kairyou - improvement).
सामान्य शब्द संयोजन
सामान्य वाक्यांश
— Understated expression; using words that are not too strong or direct.
彼は自分の感情を控えめな表現で伝えた。
— A modest budget; a limited amount of money allocated.
控えめな予算でプロジェクトを進める必要がある。
— A modest opinion; a suggestion offered without being forceful.
控えめな意見ですが、ご検討いただければ幸いです。
— An understated claim or argument; presenting a point without being overly assertive.
彼の控えめな主張にも、説得力があった。
— Subtle spices; not overpowering flavors.
この料理は控えめな香辛料で素材の味を生かしている。
अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है
Both mean understated, but 地味な can sometimes imply plainness or being boring, whereas 控えめな is generally more positive and implies tastefulness or modesty.
静かな means quiet or calm, focusing on the absence of noise. 控えめな focuses on being reserved or not attention-seeking, which might include being quiet but not necessarily.
This is an antonym. 傲慢な means arrogant, the complete opposite of the humility implied by 控えめな.
मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ
— To put it mildly; to say the least. Used to understate a situation, often for humorous or polite effect.
その映画は、控えめに言っても、退屈だった。(Sono eiga wa, hikaeme ni iu to, taikutsu datta.) - That movie was, to put it mildly, boring.
Informal to Neutral— To behave in a reserved or modest manner; to act humbly.
彼は成功しても、決して控えめに振る舞うことを忘れない。(Kare wa seikou shitemo, kesshite hikaeme ni furumau koto o wasurenai.) - Even when successful, he never forgets to behave modestly.
Neutral— To adopt a reserved or humble attitude.
会議では、控えめな態度をとるように心がけた。(Kaigi de wa, hikaeme na taido o toru you ni kokorogaketa.) - I tried to adopt a reserved attitude in the meeting.
Neutral— To make a modest or understated choice.
多くの場合、控えめな選択が最善の結果をもたらすことがある。(Ooku no baai, hikaeme na sentaku ga saizen no kekka o motarasu koto ga aru.) - In many cases, making a modest choice can lead to the best results.
Neutral— To keep one's expression understated; to avoid being too direct or explicit.
デリケートな問題なので、控えめな表現に留めることにした。(Derikeeto na mondai nanode, hikaeme na hyougen ni todomeru koto ni shita.) - It's a delicate issue, so I decided to keep my expression understated.
Neutral— A brief, modest remark; a short, understated comment.
彼の控えめな一言が、皆の心を温かくした。(Kare no hikaeme na hitokoto ga, minna no kokoro o atatakaku shita.) - His modest remark warmed everyone's hearts.
Neutral— A modest success; a success that is not overly celebrated or publicized.
控えめな成功でも、次へのステップとなる。(Hikaeme na seikou demo, tsugi e no suteppu to naru.) - Even a modest success can be a step towards the next.
Neutral— A modest self-assessment; rating oneself humbly.
控えめな自己評価は、成長の機会を逃すこともある。(Hikaeme na jiko hyouka wa, seichou no kikai o nogasu koto mo aru.) - Modest self-assessment can also lead to missing opportunities for growth.
Neutral— To maintain a modest stance or argument consistently.
彼は常に控えめな主張を貫き、周囲からの信頼を得ている。(Kare wa tsuneni hikaeme na shuchou o tsuranuki, shuu'i kara no shinrai o ete iru.) - He consistently maintains a modest stance and earns trust from those around him.
Neutral— To remain consistently understated in one's expression; to avoid being explicit.
その作家は、人生の苦悩を控えめな表現に終始して描いた。(Sono sakka wa, jinsei no kunou o hikaeme na hyougen ni shuushi shite egaita.) - That author depicted life's suffering by consistently using understated expression.
Neutralआसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले
Both words convey modesty and humility, and can sometimes be used interchangeably.
慎ましい often carries a stronger connotation of demureness, discretion, and sometimes a more traditional or feminine sense of modesty. 控えめな is more general and can apply to a wider range of situations and objects, not just personal demeanor.
控えめな性格 (modest personality) vs. 慎ましい暮らし (modest lifestyle).
Both words describe things that are not flashy or attention-grabbing.
地味な primarily refers to being plain, subdued, or unremarkable in appearance (colors, clothes, design). It can sometimes carry a negative nuance of being dull or boring. 控えめな, while also meaning understated, often implies tastefulness, elegance, or intentional modesty, and is generally more positive.
地味な服 (plain clothes) vs. 控えめなデザイン (understated design).
Both can describe a person who is not loud or boisterous.
静かな means quiet, calm, or peaceful, focusing on the absence of noise or disturbance. 控えめな means reserved, modest, or not assertive, focusing on a lack of ostentation or outward display. Someone can be 静かな but not necessarily 控えめな (e.g., a quiet observer), and vice versa (e.g., someone who speaks softly but is very assertive in their opinions).
静かな場所 (quiet place) vs. 控えめな態度 (reserved attitude).
A 控えめな style or behavior is often also considered 上品な.
上品な specifically means elegant, refined, or graceful. It emphasizes good taste and sophistication. 控えめな means understated or not excessive. While often overlapping, 控えめな focuses on the lack of extravagance, whereas 上品な focuses on the quality of refinement.
控えめな色使い (understated color usage) can be 上品な (elegant).
This is a direct antonym, making it important for contrast.
派手な means flashy, gaudy, showy, or flamboyant. It is the direct opposite of 控えめな, which means modest, reserved, or understated. One draws attention, the other avoids it.
派手な服 (flashy clothes) vs. 控えめな服 (modest clothes).
वाक्य संरचनाएँ
控えめな + Noun
控えめな色です。
Noun + は + 控えめな + Noun + です
彼女は控えめな性格です。
控えめながらも + Adjective/Verb phrase
控えめながらも、そのデザインは魅力的だ。
控えめな + Verb (adverbial use)
彼は控えめに話した。
控えめな + Noun + が/は + Verb/Adjective
控えめな色合いが、部屋に落ち着きを与えている。
控えめに + Verb
彼は成功しても、控えめに振る舞う。
控えめな + Noun + の中に/といった + Noun
控えめな表現の中に、深い感情が込められている。
～は、控えめに言っても～
その状況は、控えめに言っても困難だった。
शब्द परिवार
संज्ञा
क्रिया
विशेषण
संबंधित
इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें
Common
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Confusing 控えめな with 'shy' or 'timid'.
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控えめな implies a conscious choice for modesty or reserve, not necessarily a lack of confidence or social anxiety.
While there's overlap, 控えめな is often a positive trait reflecting good character, whereas shyness can be seen as a social impediment. A 控えめな person can be assertive when needed.
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Using 控えめな to mean 'boring' or 'insufficient'.
→
控えめな generally means understated, modest, or moderate, often with a positive connotation of tastefulness or good judgment.
For example, 控えめな味付け (hikaeme na ajitsuke) means subtle seasoning, not bland or unappetizing. It's about balance, not lack.
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Forgetting the な particle when modifying a noun.
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As a na-adjective, 控えめな requires な before the noun it modifies.
Correct: 控えめな色 (hikaeme na iro). Incorrect: 控えめ色 (hikaeme iro).
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Using 控えめな in contexts requiring strong assertiveness.
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Choose appropriate adjectives based on the situation. If directness or boldness is needed, 控えめな might be unsuitable.
For instance, in a negotiation, a 控えめな stance might be perceived as weakness rather than politeness.
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Over-reliance on direct translation from English.
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Understand the cultural nuances and context in which 控えめな is used in Japanese.
What might be 'modest' in English could have slightly different implications or connotations in Japanese culture. For example, the emphasis on harmony and restraint.
सुझाव
Syllable Emphasis
Remember to emphasize the second syllable: hi-KAE-me-na. Practicing the pronunciation with native speakers or audio resources will help you sound more natural.
Visual Association
Imagine a muted color palette (soft grays, beiges) versus a loud, vibrant one. The muted palette represents 控えめな, while the vibrant one represents its opposite, like 派手な (hade na).
Cultural Nuance
Understand that in Japan, modesty is highly valued. Being 控えめな is often a sign of respect and good character, unlike in some Western cultures where assertiveness might be more prized.
Na-Adjective Rule
As a na-adjective, 控えめな requires な when directly preceding a noun (控えめなデザイン). However, when used predicatively with です/だ, the な is omitted (デザインは控えめです).
Distinguishing from 地味な
While both mean understated, 地味な leans towards 'plain' or 'subdued' and can sometimes be negative (boring). 控えめな implies intentional modesty and tastefulness, usually positive.
Opposite Meanings
The direct opposite of 控えめな is often 派手な (hade na), meaning flashy or gaudy. Understanding this contrast helps solidify the meaning of 控えめな.
Sentence Building
Try creating sentences describing different things (your clothes, your room, a meal) using 控えめな. This active practice will reinforce its usage.
Idiomatic Use
Learn phrases like 控えめに言っても (hikaeme ni iu to - to put it mildly) to understand its idiomatic applications, often used for understatement.
Real-World Application
Listen for 控えめな in conversations, dramas, or news. Notice how it's used to describe people, objects, and even abstract concepts like growth rates or strategies.
याद करें
स्मृति सहायक
Imagine a person named 'Hiccup' (sounds like 'hikae') who is always very 'meek' and 'nice' (sounds like 'me na'). Hiccup is so meek and nice that he always acts in a modest and reserved way.
दृश्य संबंध
Picture a very pale, muted color palette, like soft grays, beiges, and light blues, representing a '控えめな' aesthetic. Contrast this with a vibrant, loud color palette, which would be the opposite.
Word Web
चैलेंज
Try to describe five things in your room using the word 控えめな. For example, 'The curtains have a 控えめな pattern.' or 'The lamp provides 控えめな light.'
शब्द की उत्पत्ति
The word 控えめ (hikaeme) originates from the verb 控える (hikaeru), which historically meant to hold back, refrain from, or be modest. The な (na) ending turns it into an adjective.
मूल अर्थ: To hold back, to refrain, to be modest.
Japonicसांस्कृतिक संदर्भ
When describing someone as 控えめな, it is generally a positive attribute, implying good character. However, be mindful that in contexts where assertiveness is valued, being excessively 控えめな might be misinterpreted as weakness or indecisiveness. The nuance is important.
In English-speaking cultures, while modesty is appreciated, there can be a greater emphasis on assertiveness and self-promotion in certain professional or social contexts. The Japanese emphasis on 控えめな might be perceived differently, sometimes as shyness or lack of confidence, depending on the specific cultural background and context.
असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें
वास्तविक संदर्भ
Describing a person's personality
- 控えめな性格です。
- 控えめな人だ。
- 控えめながらも芯が強い。
Describing appearance (clothing, colors, design)
- 控えめな色を選んだ。
- 控えめなデザインが好きだ。
- 控えめな装飾が上品だ。
Describing actions or opinions
- 控えめな意見を述べた。
- 控えめな態度をとる。
- 控えめな主張をした。
Describing quantities or intensity
- 控えめな量で十分だ。
- 控えめな味付けが良い。
- 控えめな光が心地よい。
Cultural implications of modesty
- 控えめな美徳。
- 控えめな表現が好まれる。
- 控えめな生き方。
बातचीत की शुरुआत
"What kind of style do you consider 'hikaeme'?"
"Can you give an example of someone with a 'hikaeme' personality?"
"How does the concept of 'hikaeme' relate to Japanese culture?"
"When is it appropriate to use 'hikaeme' to describe food?"
"What's the difference between 'hikaeme' and 'hade na'?"
डायरी विषय
Describe a time you acted in a 'hikaeme' way. What was the situation and outcome?
Think about your own personality. In what ways are you 'hikaeme'?
Describe an object or place that you find 'hikaeme' and explain why you like it.
How can understanding 'hikaeme' help you better appreciate Japanese culture?
Write a short story where a character's 'hikaeme' nature plays a significant role.
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल
10 सवालThe word 控えめな (hikaeme na) comes from the verb 控える (hikaeru), which means to refrain, hold back, or be modest. The な makes it an adjective, so it literally means 'refraining' or 'holding back' in a way that leads to being modest or not excessive.
Generally, yes. In Japanese culture, modesty and humility are highly valued, so being 控えめな is often seen as a positive trait, indicating good manners, self-awareness, and tastefulness. However, in specific contexts where assertiveness is needed, being too 控えめな might be perceived negatively as indecisiveness or lack of confidence.
Yes, 控えめな can be used to describe food, typically referring to the seasoning or flavor. For example, 控えめな味付け (hikaeme na ajitsuke) means subtle or light seasoning, implying that the natural flavor of the ingredients is preserved rather than overpowered by strong spices.
Both mean understated. 地味な (jimi na) often refers to plainness, subdued colors, or a lack of adornment, and can sometimes imply being boring. 控えめな is more about being modest, not flashy, and often carries a sense of tastefulness or deliberate restraint. For example, a 控えめな dress is elegantly understated, while a 地味な dress might just be plain.
As a na-adjective, 控えめな usually comes before the noun it modifies, with な in between (e.g., 控えめな色 - hikaeme na iro). It can also follow a noun with です/だ (e.g., 性格は控えめです - seikaku wa hikaeme desu).
Yes, it can. For example, 控えめな量 (hikaeme na ryou) means a modest amount, implying a smaller or more moderate portion than might be expected or demanded.
Not exactly. While someone who is shy might also be 控えめな, 控えめな implies a conscious choice to be modest or reserved, often out of politeness or humility. Shyness can stem from a lack of confidence or social anxiety. A 控えめな person might be confident but chooses not to be loud or boastful.
Common phrases include 控えめな性格 (modest personality), 控えめな色 (modest color), 控えめな態度 (reserved attitude), and 控えめな発言 (modest statement).
It reflects the cultural value placed on modesty, humility, and harmony (wa). Being 控えめな is often seen as a sign of good character and social grace in Japan.
Yes, the adverbial form is 控えめに (hikaeme ni). It means 'modestly' or 'in a reserved manner' and modifies verbs. For example, 彼は控えめに笑った (Kare wa hikaeme ni waratta) means 'He smiled modestly.'
खुद को परखो 10 सवाल
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
控えめな (hikaeme na) means modest, reserved, or moderate. It's used to describe people, things, or actions that are understated, not flashy, and avoid extremes, often implying humility and good taste.
- Modest, reserved, or moderate in behavior, appearance, or intensity.
- Understated, low-key, and not flashy or extreme.
- Often implies humility, politeness, and a lack of boastfulness.
- Can describe people, things, actions, or even quantities.
Context is Key
While 控えめな is generally positive, its specific meaning can shift based on context. Describing a person's personality as 控えめな is usually a compliment, but describing a proposal as 控えめな might imply it's too small or lacking ambition, depending on the situation.
Syllable Emphasis
Remember to emphasize the second syllable: hi-KAE-me-na. Practicing the pronunciation with native speakers or audio resources will help you sound more natural.
Visual Association
Imagine a muted color palette (soft grays, beiges) versus a loud, vibrant one. The muted palette represents 控えめな, while the vibrant one represents its opposite, like 派手な (hade na).
Cultural Nuance
Understand that in Japan, modesty is highly valued. Being 控えめな is often a sign of respect and good character, unlike in some Western cultures where assertiveness might be more prized.
संबंधित सामग्री
academic के और शब्द
絶対的
B2पूर्ण; जो किसी अन्य चीज़ पर निर्भर न हो या किसी भी तरह से कम न हो।
絶対的に
B1पूर्ण रूप से या बिना किसी शर्त के। 'यह बिल्कुल सही है।'
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2विचार में या एक विचार के रूप में मौजूद है, लेकिन भौतिक या ठोस अस्तित्व नहीं है। यह विशिष्ट विवरणों से दूर, किसी चीज के सार को सामान्य बनाने या निकालने को संदर्भित करता है। (अमूर्त कला एक सामान्य उदाहरण है।)
抽象的に
B1अमूर्त या सैद्धांतिक तरीके से। विचारों या अवधारणाओं के लिए उपयोग किया जाता है, भौतिक वस्तुओं के लिए नहीं।
学術的な
B1गंभीर विश्वविद्यालय अध्ययन, अनुसंधान या विज्ञान से संबंधित; अकादमिक।
学術的だ
B1अकादमिक; शिक्षा और छात्रवृत्ति से संबंधित। यह एक बहुत ही अकादमिक दृष्टिकोण है।
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1अकादमिक, विद्वत्ता; विद्वत्तापूर्ण प्रयासों से संबंधित।
学力
B1अकादमिक क्षमता का अर्थ है स्कूली विषयों में ज्ञान का स्तर।
