本色 běnsè inherent qualities
inherent qualities; natural qualities; distinctive character; true qualities
How to remember 本色: 本 source + 色 color = inherent qualities.
Characters
How it is used
- 'True/inherent character, natural qualities' - 英雄本色 (yīngxióng běnsè) a hero's true colors.
- Praises staying true to one's essential nature: 保持本色 (bǎochí běnsè) to keep one's authentic self.
- Note here 色 read sè; positive, unlike the exposé sense of 露出本性.