Definition
本色 (běn sè) refers to a person's true, genuine character — the qualities they reveal under the surface, often admirable (e.g., integrity, courage). 本质 (běn zhì, HSK5) is more abstract, meaning the essence of anything (e.g., a problem), while 本性 (běn xìng, HSK7) is a person's or animal's innate nature, which can be positive or negative. 本色 specifically highlights an authentic, often noble trait.
noun
inherent qualitiestrue character
Examples
- 本色。Tā de běn sè jiùshì zhèngzhí hé chéngshí.His true character is integrity and honesty.
- 本色。Yī gè rén de běn sè bù huì yīnwèi huánjìng ér gǎibiàn.A person's inherent qualities won't change because of circumstances.
- 本色。Tā zài wēijī zhōng lù chū le yǒnggǎn de běn sè.She revealed her courageous true quality during the crisis.
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