分寸 fēncun propriety
propriety; appropriate behavior; proper speech or action; within the norms
How to remember 分寸: 分 divide + 寸 inch = propriety.
Characters
How it is used
- 'Sense of proportion / propriety / the right measure' in speech and conduct - 说话有分寸 (shuōhuà yǒu fēncun) to know how far to go in one's words, 掌握分寸 to strike the right balance.
- Note toneless 寸. Refers to the tact of not overstepping; 没分寸 means tactless/over the line.
Example sentences
- 我自有分寸。 Wǒ zì yǒufēncùn.I know what I'm doing.