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A2 noun 10 min read

谦逊

qianxun
Examples 谦逊 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 谦逊 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you can think of 谦逊 (qiānxùn) as a way to say someone is 'very nice and not proud.' Even though this is a slightly advanced word, you might hear it when people talk about good people. It means the person doesn't say 'I am the best!' even if they are very good at something. For example, if a student gets an A+ but doesn't brag, they are being humble. In A1, you just need to know that 谦逊 is a good thing to be. You can use it like '他很谦逊' (He is very humble). It's a compliment you give to someone you respect. Think of it as the opposite of being 'loud' about your success. It's a quiet kind of goodness.
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At the A2 level, you should recognize 谦逊 (qiānxùn) as a formal adjective used to describe someone's personality. You might see it in short stories or simple news articles. It is more formal than 谦虚 (qiānxū). While 谦虚 is what you say when someone praises your Chinese, 谦逊 is used to describe a person's overall character. A key phrase to learn at this level is '谦逊的态度' (a humble attitude). You can use it to describe a teacher, a boss, or a famous person who is kind to everyone. Remember that in Chinese culture, being 谦逊 is one of the best things someone can say about you. It shows you have 'good manners' (有礼貌) and a 'good heart' (心好).
At the B1 level, you can start using 谦逊 (qiānxùn) in your own writing and more formal speaking. You should understand the difference between 谦逊 and its synonyms like 虚心 (open-minded) or 低调 (low-key). You will notice that 谦逊 is often used in professional contexts. For instance, in a job interview, you might describe a former mentor as '为人谦逊' (humble in conduct). You should also be able to use it as a noun, such as '谦逊是一种美德' (Humility is a virtue). At this stage, you are moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to discuss abstract qualities and cultural values. You should also be aware that being 谦逊 is a key part of 'face' (面子) culture—it helps everyone feel respected.
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At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 谦逊 (qiānxùn) and be able to discuss its role in Chinese philosophy and social ethics. You can use it to analyze characters in literature or public figures in the media. You should understand that 谦逊 is often paired with other virtues, like '谦逊好学' (humble and eager to learn). You can also use it to describe the 'tone' of a piece of writing or a speech. For example, '他的演讲辞藻华丽，但语气却十分谦逊' (His speech used grand language, but his tone was very humble). At this level, you should also be comfortable using the word in complex sentence structures, such as '正是因为他的谦逊，他才能够不断进步' (It is precisely because of his humility that he is able to make continuous progress).
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At the C1 level, you should be able to appreciate the literary and historical weight of 谦逊 (qiānxùn). You can discuss how this concept has evolved from Confucian texts to modern corporate culture. You should be able to distinguish 谦逊 from more obscure or highly specific terms like 谦抑 (self-restraint) or 逊让 (yielding politely). You can use 谦逊 to engage in deep cultural comparisons, such as the difference between 'modesty' in Western individualistic cultures and 'humility' in Eastern collective cultures. Your usage should be precise, using the word to describe not just a lack of pride, but a proactive respect for the 'Dao' or the collective. You should also be able to recognize it in classical-style modern prose, where it often signifies a person of high moral caliber.
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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 谦逊 (qiānxùn), including its most subtle connotations. You can use it in academic writing, high-level political discourse, or literary criticism. You understand that 谦逊 is not just a social lubricant but a profound epistemological stance—an acknowledgment of the limits of human knowledge and power. You can analyze how 谦逊 is used rhetorically in formal 'self-deprecating' prefaces (序言) of scholarly works. You can also identify when the word is being used ironically or as a 'mask' for 'false modesty' (虚伪的谦逊). At this level, 谦逊 is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a lens through which you understand the intricate dance of hierarchy, respect, and self-cultivation in the Chinese-speaking world.
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Examples

谦逊 in 30 Seconds

  • 谦逊 (qiānxùn) means humility or modesty. It is a formal term used to describe a noble and respectful character trait in individuals.
  • This word is highly valued in Chinese culture, reflecting Confucian and Taoist ideals of self-cultivation, social harmony, and the avoidance of arrogance.
  • Grammatically, it functions as both an adjective ('a humble person') and a noun ('humility is a virtue'), often appearing in formal writing and speeches.
  • It differs from '谦虚' (qiānxū) by being more literary and suggesting a deeper, more permanent character quality rather than just polite behavior.

The Chinese term 谦逊 (qiānxùn) is a sophisticated and deeply rooted concept in Chinese culture, primarily translated as 'humility' or 'modesty.' While English speakers often view humility as a personal trait, in the Chinese linguistic context, it is a foundational virtue that facilitates social harmony and personal growth. The word is composed of two characters: 谦 (qiān), which refers to being modest or self-effacing in speech, and 逊 (xùn), which implies yielding or stepping back. Together, they describe a person who does not boast about their achievements and who treats others with genuine respect regardless of their own status.

Social Context
In Chinese society, displaying 谦逊 is often considered more important than displaying confidence. While Western cultures might encourage 'selling oneself' in an interview, a Chinese professional might use 谦逊 to acknowledge the contributions of their team or to downplay their individual brilliance to avoid appearing arrogant (傲慢). This is not necessarily a lack of confidence, but rather a strategic and ethical choice to maintain 'face' for everyone involved.
Philosophical Roots
The concept is heavily influenced by Confucianism, where the 'Junzi' (gentleman/noble person) is expected to be humble. It is also found in Taoism, where the 'water' metaphor is often used: water is humble because it flows to the lowest places, yet it is the most powerful force. Therefore, 谦逊 is seen as a sign of true strength and wisdom rather than weakness.

真正的智者总是表现得非常谦逊。

(True sages always appear very humble.)

You will encounter this word in formal literature, news reports about respected public figures, and in educational settings. It is a 'high-register' word, meaning it sounds more elegant and respectful than the common term 谦虚 (qiānxū). When someone describes you as 谦逊, it is a high compliment regarding your character and upbringing. It suggests that you possess a quiet dignity that doesn't need to shout to be heard.

他的谦逊赢得了所有人的尊重。

(His humility won the respect of everyone.)
Character Analysis
The character 谦 (qiān) features the 'speech' radical (讠), suggesting that humility is often expressed through how we talk about ourselves. The character 逊 (xùn) features the 'walk/movement' radical (辶), suggesting that humility is also an action—the act of yielding or following. Together, they encompass a holistic approach to being a modest person in both word and deed.

In a professional setting, 谦逊 is often paired with 务实 (wùshí - pragmatic/down-to-earth). A leader who is both 谦逊 and 务实 is considered the ideal type of authority figure in Chinese corporate and political culture. Such a person listens more than they speak and values the collective output over individual fame. Understanding this word is key to understanding the ethical backbone of interpersonal relationships in the Sinosphere.

Using 谦逊 (qiānxùn) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical versatility and its formal tone. It primarily functions as an adjective to describe a person's character, but it can also serve as a noun representing the abstract quality of humility itself. Because it is a formal word, it is rarely used in very casual slang, but it is perfect for essays, formal introductions, and respectful descriptions of others.

As an Adjective
When used as an adjective, it usually follows the person it describes, often preceded by an intensifier like 非常 (fēicháng - very) or 十分 (shífēn - extremely). For example, '他为人谦逊' (He is a humble person). Note the use of 为人 (wéirén), which means 'to conduct oneself' or 'one's character,' a common collocation for this word.
As a Noun
As a noun, it can be the subject or object of a sentence. For instance, '谦逊是一种美德' (Humility is a virtue). In this usage, it represents the concept in its entirety. You might also hear '保持谦逊' (keep/maintain humility), which is a common piece of advice given to successful people.

即便取得了巨大的成功，他依然保持着谦逊的态度。

(Even after achieving great success, he still maintains a humble attitude.)

One important grammatical note: unlike some adjectives in Chinese, 谦逊 is rarely used in a reduplicated form (like 谦谦逊逊) in modern Mandarin, though you might see 谦谦君子 (qiānqiān jūnzǐ) in classical literature to describe a perfectly modest gentleman. In modern speech, stick to the standard form.

这种谦逊的品质在当今社会尤为珍贵。

(This quality of humility is especially precious in today's society.)
Common Collocations
  • 谦逊的态度 (Humble attitude)
  • 为人谦逊 (Conduct oneself with humility)
  • 谦逊好学 (Humble and eager to learn)
  • 保持谦逊 (To stay humble)

When writing, remember that 谦逊 carries a stronger sense of 'character' than 谦虚. While 谦虚 can sometimes be used to describe a temporary state or a polite response to a compliment, 谦逊 describes a deep-seated personality trait. Therefore, use 谦逊 when you want to emphasize the nobility and depth of someone's modest nature.

In your daily life in a Chinese-speaking environment, you might not hear 谦逊 (qiānxùn) as often as 'hello' or 'thank you,' but it appears in specific, high-value contexts. Understanding these contexts will help you grasp the cultural weight the word carries. It is a word of 'praise' and 'evaluation' rather than a word of 'action.'

Biographies and Eulogies
When a great scientist, artist, or statesman is being honored, 谦逊 is almost always used to describe them. For instance, in a documentary about Yuan Longping (the 'Father of Hybrid Rice'), narrators frequently use 谦逊 to describe how he stayed in the fields despite his worldwide fame. It highlights the contrast between greatness and the lack of ego.
Interviews and Profiles
Journalists often use this word to set the tone for an interview. A headline might read: '专访：一位谦逊的艺术大师' (Exclusive Interview: A Humble Master of Art). By using 谦逊, the journalist tells the reader that the subject is approachable and likable, despite their high status.

他在信中表现出的谦逊令人动容。

(The humility he showed in the letter was touching.)

In educational settings, teachers use this word to encourage students. A teacher might say, '学习要谦逊' (You must be humble in your studies). This implies that if you think you know everything, you stop learning. Here, 谦逊 is the antidote to the 'full cup'—to learn, one must first be empty and modest.

虽然他是老板，但他对员工总是非常谦逊。

(Although he is the boss, he is always very humble toward his employees.)
Literature and Philosophy
In modern literature, authors use 谦逊 to create depth in characters. A character who is 谦逊 is often the 'silent hero' who does the right thing without seeking credit. In philosophical texts, 谦逊 is debated as a way to achieve 'inner peace' (内心平静) by removing the burden of the ego.

Finally, you will hear it in corporate values. Many Chinese companies list 谦逊 as a core value. In this context, it means 'being open to feedback' and 'never being satisfied with current achievements.' It is a dynamic kind of humility that drives constant improvement. When you hear a CEO say their company needs to remain 谦逊, they are telling their employees not to get complacent.

While 谦逊 (qiānxùn) is a positive word, learners often make subtle mistakes in its usage, register, and distinction from similar words. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid social awkwardness.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '谦虚' (qiānxū)
This is the most common error. 谦虚 is the everyday word for 'modest.' You use it when someone says 'Your Chinese is great!' and you reply 'No, I'm still learning.' 谦逊 is much more formal and describes a deep character trait. Using 谦逊 in a casual conversation about a small compliment might sound 'overly dramatic' or 'too bookish.'
Mistake 2: Using it for Self-Deprecation
In English, you might say 'I am a humble person.' In Chinese, saying 我很谦逊 (I am very humble) is actually a paradox. By claiming you are humble, you are demonstrating a lack of humility! It is much better to let others describe you as 谦逊 or to use phrases like '我还需要多向大家学习' (I still need to learn more from everyone).

他那种发自内心的谦逊绝不是装出来的。

(That heartfelt humility of his is definitely not an act.)

Another mistake involves the intensity of the word. 谦逊 is inherently a strong, positive word. Adding 'too many' intensifiers can sometimes make it sound like you're trying too hard to flatter someone. For example, '超级无敌谦逊' (super-invincibly humble) is a clash of registers—slang meets high-level literary Chinese. Keep the modifiers formal (非常, 十分, 极具).

不要把谦逊误认为软弱。

(Do not mistake humility for weakness.)
Register Errors
Using 谦逊 in a text message to a close friend about where to eat dinner would be weird. It's a word for 'big' things—character, life philosophy, and professional reputation. If you're just being 'chill' or 'modest' about a small thing, use 随便 (suíbiàn) or 客气 (kèqi).

Finally, ensure you don't confuse 谦逊 with 卑微 (bēiwēi - lowly/servile). 谦逊 is a virtue of the strong; 卑微 is a state of being low or having low self-esteem. A humble person (谦逊的人) still has self-respect; a servile person (卑微的人) does not. Avoid using 谦逊 in contexts where someone is being treated poorly or forced to be small; that is not humility, that is oppression.

Chinese is rich with words for modesty and humility, each with a specific nuance. Choosing the right one depends on the situation, the person you are describing, and the level of formality you wish to achieve. Let's compare 谦逊 (qiānxùn) with its closest relatives.

谦逊 vs. 谦虚 (qiānxū)

谦虚: The most common, 'neutral' word. It means not being conceited. It's used for everyday situations, like responding to a compliment. It's a behavior.

谦逊: More formal, 'literary.' It describes an innate character trait or a philosophical stance. It's a virtue.

谦逊 vs. 虚心 (xūxīn)

虚心: Literally 'empty heart/mind.' It specifically refers to being open-minded and willing to accept advice or criticism. You are 虚心 when you listen to a teacher's corrections.

谦逊: Broader. It includes being open-minded but also covers how you carry yourself and how you treat others in general.

他在学术上非常虚心，在为人上非常谦逊。

(He is very open-minded academically and very humble in his personal conduct.)

Other alternatives include 谦卑 (qiānbēi), which is even more intense than 谦逊 and can sometimes imply a sense of 'lowliness' or religious-like submission. It is often used in a spiritual context. Then there is 低调 (dīdiào), which literally means 'low key.' This is very popular in modern slang and refers to someone who doesn't like to show off their wealth or talent.

保持谦逊，因为山外有山，人外有人。

(Stay humble, because there are always higher mountains and more capable people out there.)
Summary Table
WordNuanceRegister
谦逊Deep virtue/characterFormal
谦虚Standard modestyNeutral
虚心Willingness to learnNeutral/Educational
低调Low-key/Not showing offInformal/Modern

In conclusion, while 谦逊 is your go-to word for describing a noble and modest character in formal writing, knowing these alternatives allows you to navigate the nuances of Chinese social dynamics with much greater precision.

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Examples by Level

1

他是一个谦逊的人。

He is a humble person.

Subject + 是 + (adjective) + 的 + Noun.

2

老师很谦逊。

The teacher is very humble.

Subject + 很 + Adjective.

3

我们要谦逊。

We need to be humble.

Subject + 要 + Adjective.

4

他不骄傲，他很谦逊。

He is not proud; he is very humble.

Contrast: 不 [Negative Trait], 很 [Positive Trait].

5

谦逊是好品质。

Humility is a good quality.

Abstract Noun + 是 + Noun Phrase.

6

他的话很谦逊。

His words are very humble.

Possessive + Noun + 很 + Adjective.

7

那个运动员很谦逊。

That athlete is very humble.

Specific Subject + 很 + Adjective.

8

爸爸教我要谦逊。

Dad taught me to be humble.

Subject + 教 + Object + [Action/State].

1

他取得了第一名，但依然很谦逊。

He got first place, but he is still very humble.

Clause 1 + 但 (but) + 依然 (still) + Adjective.

2

谦逊的态度对他很有帮助。

A humble attitude is very helpful to him.

Adjective + 的 + Noun (Subject) + 对...有帮助.

3

这位科学家非常谦逊。

This scientist is extremely humble.

Measure word + Noun + 非常 + Adjective.

4

我们要学习他的谦逊。

We should learn from his humility.

学习 (learn) + [Person] 的 + [Quality].

5

他为人谦逊，大家都喜欢他。

He is humble in his conduct, so everyone likes him.

为人谦逊 is a fixed four-character structure.

6

虽然他很有钱，但他很谦逊。

Although he is very rich, he is very humble.

虽然 (although) ... 但 (but) ...

7

请保持谦逊的心态。

Please maintain a humble mindset.

保持 (maintain) + Adjective + 的 + Noun.

8

他的成功源于他的谦逊。

His success stems from his humility.

Noun + 源于 (stems from) + Noun.

1

谦逊不仅是一种礼貌，更是一种智慧。

Humility is not just a form of politeness, but even more so a form of wisdom.

不仅 (not only) ... 更 (but also/even more) ...

2

在长辈面前，他表现得十分谦逊。

In front of his elders, he behaved very humbly.

在...面前 (In front of) + Subject + 表现得 (behaves) + Adjective.

3

他那谦逊的性格赢得了同事的尊重。

His humble character won the respect of his colleagues.

Adjective + 的 + Noun (Subject) + 赢得 (wins) + Object.

4

无论什么时候，我们都应该保持谦逊。

No matter when, we should always maintain humility.

无论...都 (No matter... always) + 应该 (should) + 保持 (maintain).

5

他谦逊地接受了大家的批评。

He humbly accepted everyone's criticism.

Adjective + 地 (adverbial marker) + Verb.

6

这种谦逊的美德在现代社会很少见。

This virtue of humility is rare in modern society.

Measure word + Noun + 在...很少见 (is rare in...).

7

作为领导，他总是保持着谦逊的作风。

As a leader, he always maintains a humble style of work.

作为 (As a) + Noun, Subject + 保持着 (maintains) + Noun.

8

他谦逊好学，进步很快。

He is humble and eager to learn, so he progresses quickly.

谦逊好学 is a compound adjective phrase.

1

他以谦逊著称，从不炫耀自己的成就。

He is known for his humility and never shows off his achievements.

以...著称 (Known for...).

2

真正的谦逊并不是否定自己的能力。

True humility is not about denying one's own abilities.

真正的 (True) + Noun + 并不是 (is not necessarily) + Verb Phrase.

3

他在文章中流露出的谦逊令人敬佩。

The humility revealed in his article is admirable.

在...中 (In...) + 流露出的 (revealed/leaked out) + Noun + 令人敬佩 (is admirable).

4

面对荣誉，他表现出了难得的谦逊。

In the face of honor, he showed a rare humility.

面对 (Facing) + Noun, Subject + 表现出了 (showed) + Adjective + 的 + Noun.

5

谦逊使人进步，骄傲使人落后。

Humility helps one progress, while pride makes one fall behind.

Parallel structure: [A] 使人 [X], [B] 使人 [Y].

6

他那谦逊有礼的举止给人留下了深刻印象。

His humble and polite manner left a deep impression on people.

Adjective phrase + 的 + Noun + 给人留下印象 (leaves an impression).

7

我们应当在成功时保持谦逊，在失败时保持坚韧。

We should remain humble in success and resilient in failure.

应当 (should) + 在...时 (when...) + 保持 (maintain).

8

他的谦逊并非虚伪，而是源于内心的修养。

His humility is not hypocritical, but stems from inner cultivation.

并非 (is not) ... 而是 (but rather) ... 源于 (stems from).

1

这种谦逊是一种高尚的境界，常人难以企及。

This kind of humility is a noble realm that ordinary people find hard to reach.

Noun + 是 + Noun Phrase, [Group] 难以企及 (hard to reach/attain).

2

他虽居高位，却始终保持着一种谦逊的姿态。

Although he holds a high position, he has always maintained a humble posture.

虽 (although) ... 却 (yet) ... 始终 (all along/always).

3

谦逊并不意味着软弱，而是一种深藏不露的力量。

Humility does not mean weakness, but is a deeply hidden strength.

不意味着 (does not mean) ... 而是 (but rather) ... 力量 (strength).

4

在学术研究中，保持谦逊是探索真理的前提。

In academic research, maintaining humility is the prerequisite for exploring the truth.

在...中 (In...), [Action] 是 [Result] 的前提 (is the prerequisite for...).

5

他那谦逊的词句中隐含着对他人的极大尊重。

Implicit in his humble words is a great respect for others.

在...中 (In...) + 隐含着 (is implicit/hidden) + Object.

6

这种谦逊是经历了岁月洗礼后的淡定与从容。

This humility is the calmness and composure that comes after the baptism of time.

Noun + 是 + [Description] + 后的 (after...) + Noun.

7

他以一种近乎虔诚的谦逊对待自己的艺术创作。

He treats his artistic creation with a humility that is almost like piety.

以 (with) + 近乎 (almost/bordering on) + Adjective + 的 + Noun + 对待 (treats).

8

谦逊的本质在于对自身局限性的清醒认知。

The essence of humility lies in a clear awareness of one's own limitations.

Noun + 的本质 (essence of...) + 在于 (lies in) + Noun Phrase.

1

这种谦逊超越了世俗的礼节，上升到了哲学的高度。

This humility transcends worldly etiquette and rises to the level of philosophy.

超越了 (transcended) ... 上升到了 (rose to) ...

2

他在功成名就之后，愈发显露出一种大智若愚的谦逊。

After achieving fame and fortune, he increasingly displayed a humility that 'appears foolish but is truly wise.'

在...之后 (After...), 愈发 (increasingly) + 显露出 (displayed/revealed).

3

谦逊并非刻意为之的表演，而是人格魅力的自然流露。

Humility is not a deliberate performance, but a natural expression of personal charisma.

并非 (is not) ... 而是 (but rather) ... 自然流露 (natural expression).

4

这种谦逊承载着深厚的文化底蕴和家族传承。

This humility carries a profound cultural heritage and family legacy.

承载着 (carries/bears) + Noun Phrase.

5

他那种骨子里的谦逊，让任何傲慢在他面前都显得渺小。

That innate humility of his makes any arrogance seem insignificant in his presence.

骨子里的 (in one's bones/innate) + Noun, 让 (makes) + [Object] + 显得 (appear) + Adjective.

6

在浩瀚的宇宙面前，人类应当保持敬畏与谦逊。

In the face of the vast universe, humanity should maintain awe and humility.

在...面前 (In the face of...), Subject + 应当 (should) + 保持 (maintain).

7

这种谦逊构建了一种和谐的人际生态。

This humility constructs a harmonious interpersonal ecology.

Subject + 构建了 (constructed/built) + Noun Phrase.

8

他将谦逊化作一种处世哲学，赢得了生前生后的美名。

He transformed humility into a life philosophy, winning a great reputation both during his life and after his death.

将 (object marker) + Noun + 化作 (transform into) + Noun Phrase.

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