从容

• Pinyin: cóng róng
• Hanzi breakdown: 从 = from/follow (here: unhurried); 容 = appearance, manner

Meaning

Calm and unhurried; composed; at ease. Describes a relaxed, confident manner without rushing.

Implies both mental composure and adequate time. A person who is 从容 handles situations smoothly without panic. Often used to describe demeanor in challenging situations, suggesting grace under pressure.

Examples

1. 面对记者的尖锐提问，她从容应对，没有丝毫慌乱。 Facing the reporters' sharp questions, she responded with composure, without the slightest panic.
2. 他从容地收拾好行李，仿佛不是去赶飞机而是去散步。 He calmly packed his luggage as if he were going for a stroll rather than catching a flight.
3. 即使在最困难的时刻，她也保持着从容的微笑。 Even in the most difficult moments, she maintained a calm smile.

Usage Guide

Context: demeanor, character, description

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 他处事从容，从不手忙脚乱。(He handles things calmly and is never flustered.)
• 她从容地走上了舞台。(She walked onto the stage with composure.)

Don't Say

• 他从容地慌张 (Contradictory — 从容 and 慌张 are opposites)

Origin & History

Ancient usage where 从 meant 'unhurried' and 容 meant 'appearance/manner.' Together describing an easy, relaxed demeanor.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal