Idiom: 不卑不亢 (bù bēi bù kàng)
Literal Meaning: “Neither servile nor arrogant.”
Explanation: 不卑不亢 (bù bēi bù kàng) means to maintain a balanced and respectful attitude without being overly humble or excessively proud, especially in interactions with others.
Chinese Idiom Stories
The idiom 不卑不亢 originates from ancient Chinese writings, emphasizing the Confucian virtue of balance in one’s behavior. A classic story tells of a diplomat sent to negotiate with a powerful state. Despite the other party’s dominance, the diplomat remained composed, polite, and firm, neither groveling nor showing arrogance.
This approach impressed both sides, demonstrating the importance of maintaining self-respect and treating others with equal respect, regardless of status or power.
Idiom Example Sentences
- 他在面試中表現得不卑不亢，給面試官留下了深刻的印象。
- He conducted himself with composure during the interview, leaving a strong impression on the interviewer.
- Tā zài miànshì zhōng biǎoxiàn de bù bēi bù kàng, gěi miànshì guān liúxiàle shēnkè de yìnxiàng.
- 這封信寫得不卑不亢，表達了我們的立場與尊重。
- This letter was written with neither servility nor arrogance, expressing our position and respect.
- Zhè fēng xìn xiě de bù bēi bù kàng, biǎodále wǒmen de lìchǎng yǔ zūnzhòng.
Practice Exercise
- What does 不卑不亢 mean, and why is it important in interpersonal communication?
- Describe a situation where you think maintaining a 不卑不亢 attitude would be beneficial.
- Use 不卑不亢 in a sentence to describe how one should act during negotiations or in professional settings.
Multiple Choice Questions
What behavior exemplifies 不卑不亢?
A) Apologizing excessively to avoid conflict.
B) Speaking with arrogance to show confidence.
C) Remaining calm and respectful during a heated debate.
D) Avoiding the conversation entirely.
(Answer: C)
