本色 (běn sè) — inherent qualities; true character
Definition
本色 is a person's genuine, unchanging character — close to 本性, but emphasizes the qualities a person shows through behavior rather than the abstract nature. 本质 is broader, used for people, things, and abstract ideas.
noun
inherent qualitiestrue character
Examples
- 本色。Tā de běn sè jiù shì zhèng zhí hé chéng shí.His true character is integrity and honesty.
- 本色。Yí gè rén de běn sè bú huì yīn wèi huán jìng ér gǎi biàn.A person's inherent qualities won't change because of circumstances.
- 本色。Tā zài wēi jī zhōng lù chū le yǒng gǎn de běn sè.She revealed her courageous true quality during the crisis.
Appears in
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.