退缩

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Character Breakdown

Understanding 退缩

The verb 退缩 (tuìsuō) means to shrink back or to recoil, often due to fear, hesitation, or difficulty. It is commonly used to describe someone who hesitates or retreats when facing challenges or pressure.

Usage in Conversation

People use 退缩 to express reluctance or fear in situations requiring courage or determination. For example, when someone faces a tough task or confrontation, saying they '退缩' implies they backed down or gave up.

Common Collocations

  • 退缩: to shrink back and not move forward, often describing hesitation in progress.
  • 面对困难退缩: not shrinking back when facing difficulties, emphasizing bravery.
  • 退缩公众面前: shrinking back in front of the public, indicating stage fright or nervousness.

Nuances and Tips

退缩 carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of courage or resolve. It is often contrasted with 勇敢 (yǒnggǎn, brave). Avoid confusing 退缩 with simple physical retreat; 退缩 often implies psychological hesitation or fear.

When using 退缩, it usually appears after the subject and before the verb or at the end of the sentence to describe the action of shrinking back or hesitating.

Example Sentences

Facing the challenge, he did not shrink back; instead, he worked even

Don't shrink back when encountering difficulties; face them bravely.

He shrank back in front of the public and couldn't finish the speech.