dignified without being overbearing; gentle yet commanding respect
A set phrase describing a person who possesses authority and dignity but remains warm and approachable, not intimidating. Often used in descriptions of ideal leadership or character. The expression has a classical, literary flavor.
See also: 威あって猛からず (いあってたけからず)
He is exactly the kind of person described by the phrase 'dignified without being overbearing.'
That teacher is dignified yet gentle, and is adored by the students.
Standard kanji form for this classical-sounding expression.
Variant using 有り for あり; less common but attested.
Abbreviated variant omitting り; rare and attested.
From the Analects’ description of Confucius, 威而不猛, “dignified yet not fierce.” Japanese reads the Classical Chinese phrase as 威ありて猛からず.