Definition
轻佻 describes speech or behavior that is frivolous, unserious, and inappropriately flirtatious. It carries a strong negative connotation in Chinese, implying a lack of dignity or restraint. The English glosses 'capricious' and 'insulting' do not capture the core meaning — this word is about being flighty and indecorous, not about being changeable or intentionally offensive.
s.v.
frivolousflippant(of speech or manner) light and improper
Examples
- 轻佻，。Tā de jǔzhǐ hěn qīng tiāo, ràng rén fǎngǎn.His manner is frivolous, which puts people off.
- 轻佻，。Shuōhuà búyào tài qīng tiāo, yào yánsù yìdiǎn.Don't speak so flippantly; be a bit more serious.
- 轻佻。Tā bù xǐhuan nà zhǒng qīng tiāo de nánhái.She doesn't like that kind of frivolous boy.
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