Definition
阴柔 describes a personality or aesthetic that is gentle, soft, and reserved — often associated with the 'yin' (阴) principle of softness, receptivity, and inwardness in Chinese philosophy. It contrasts with 阳刚 (yánggāng, 'masculine and strong'). You can use it for people (especially men with a gentle demeanor), voices, or artistic styles. Be careful: in some contexts it carries a subtle implication of effeminacy or lack of assertiveness, so tone matters.
a
gentle and reserved (of personality, voice, or style)softfeminine (in aesthetic or temperament)
Examples
- 阴柔,。Tā de xìnggé bǐjiào yīn róu, shuōhuà zǒng shì hěn wēnróu.His personality is rather gentle and reserved; he always speaks very softly.
- 阴柔,。Zhè fú huà de fēnggé piān yīn róu, sècǎi róuhé.This painting's style leans toward the soft and feminine, with gentle colors.
- ,阴柔。Tā suīrán shì nánxìng, dàn yǒu yì zhǒng yīn róu zhī měi.Although he is male, he has a kind of gentle, reserved beauty.
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