しおらしい
しおらしい
i-adjective
meek; demure; modest
1.
meek; demure; modest
Describes a gentle, unassuming manner, typically used for women or behavior considered traditionally feminine.
しおらしい態度で謝っていた。
They were apologizing with a meek attitude.
普段強気な彼女がしおらしくしているのは珍しい。
It's rare to see her, who is usually assertive, acting so demure.
しおらしく振る舞っているが、本当は気が強い。
She acts demure, but she's actually strong-willed.
CONJUGATION:
- しおらしい → しおらしく (adverbial)
- しおらしい → しおらしくない (negative)
- しおらしい → しおらしかった (past)
- しおらしい → しおらしさ (noun form)
ETYMOLOGY:
From 萎る (to wilt) + らしい. The image is of a wilting flower - delicate and gentle.
USAGE:
Traditionally used to describe women showing modesty, gentleness, and deference. In modern usage, can be applied to anyone exhibiting uncharacteristically subdued behavior.
NUANCE:
- Can be positive (describing genuine gentleness)
- Can be slightly negative (implying the behavior is affected or unusual)
- Sometimes used ironically when someone is behaving unusually meek
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 控えめ - reserved, modest
- おしとやか - graceful, ladylike
- 従順 - obedient, submissive
Related Words
Related:
控えめ (reserved)