(こし)(ひく)

こしがひくい
expression
humble, modest, unassuming
expression
1. humble, modest, polite in manner
Describes someone who behaves with humility and politeness, not putting on airs despite their status.
あの(ひと)(こし)(ひく)い。
That person is humble.
(こし)(ひく)態度(たいど)接客(せっきゃく)する
To serve customers with a humble attitude.
有名(ゆうめい)になっても(こし)(ひく)ままだ。
Even after becoming famous, they remain modest.
Despite being the president, he's so humble that all the employees like him.
Humble people tend to be trusted. It's probably because they don't act arrogant, which makes them easy to talk to.

Structure: (こし) (waist/hip) + + (ひく) (low). The image is of bowing low - a sign of humility and respect in Japanese culture.

Antonym: (こし)(たか) (arrogant, haughty)

Positive connotation: In Japanese culture, being (こし)(ひく)い is generally seen as virtuous, especially for people in positions of power or fame.

Related words

CONTRAST WITH (こし) EXPRESSIONS: