克制

• Pinyin: kè zhì
• Hanzi breakdown: 克 = overcome; 制 = 制 (to make/control)

Meaning

To restrain; to exercise self-control; to hold back. The act of suppressing emotions or impulses.

Refers to conscious effort to control one's emotions, desires, or reactions. Considered a virtue in Chinese culture. Can be used reflexively (克制自己) or to describe restraining something external.

Examples

1. 他努力克制自己的怒火，没有当场发作。 He tried hard to restrain his anger and didn't explode on the spot.
2. 面对诱惑，你需要学会克制。 When facing temptation, you need to learn self-control.
3. 她强忍着泪水，极力克制自己的情绪。 She held back her tears and tried her best to control her emotions.

Usage Guide

Context: emotions, self-discipline, psychology

Tone: measured

Do Say

• 他很能克制自己的情绪。(He's very good at restraining his emotions.)
• 请克制一下你的冲动。(Please restrain your impulses.)

Don't Say

• 我克制了这个问题。(Don't use 克制 for solving problems — use 解决; 克制 is specifically for suppressing emotions or desires)

Origin & History

Compound of 克 (overcome/restrain) + 制 (control). Together means 'to overcome and control.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal