giấu màu
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To hide one's talent, to conceal one's abilities: The phrase "giấu màu" describes the deliberate act of downplaying or concealing one's true skills, knowledge, or talents, often to appear modest or to avoid attention. It implies a conscious choice not to show off.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Anh ấy rất giỏi nhưng luôn thích giấu màu. (He is very skilled but always likes to hide his talent.)
- Đừng giấu màu nữa, hãy thể hiện khả năng của mình đi! (Stop hiding your light under a bushel, show your ability!)
- Cô ấy giấu màu rất kỹ, ít ai biết cô ấy là một nghệ sĩ piano tài năng. (She conceals her talent very well; few people know she is a talented piano artist.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often carries a slightly humorous or ironic tone, acknowledging that the modesty is somewhat feigned or strategic. It is frequently used in contexts of praise or encouragement, urging someone to stop being overly modest.
- Biết anh giấu màu rồi, nhưng lần này anh phải đảm nhận dự án này thôi. (I know you're hiding your talent, but this time you have to take on this project.)
Variants and Related Words
- Khiêm tốn (adj, v): To be modest, humble. While "khiêm tốn" is a general term for modesty, "giấu màu" specifically implies an active concealment of ability.
- Giấu giếm (v): To hide, to conceal (something, often negative). This is a more general verb for hiding.
- Ẩn tài (v, literary): To hide one's talent. A more formal or literary synonym.
Synonyms
- Hide one's light under a bushel: (English idiom) To conceal one's talents or good qualities.
- Play down one's abilities: To make one's skills seem less important or impressive.
- Be modest about one's talents: To not boast about one's skills.
Related Idioms
- "Giấu đầu hở đuôi": (To hide the head but show the tail) Meaning to do something incompletely or unsuccessfully, so the secret is still revealed. This idiom shares the concept of "giấu" (hiding) but focuses on a failed attempt, unlike the intentional and often successful act of "giấu màu".
- "Tài cao đức trọng": (High talent and great virtue) A phrase praising someone's ability and character. It is an antonymic concept to "giấu màu," as it describes someone whose talent is recognized and respected.