神妙
also: しんびょう
Meanings
1
meek; docile; humble; obedient
Describes a person's attitude as subdued, respectful, and compliant, often after being scolded or in a formal situation. Can carry a nuance of being unusually quiet or well-behaved.
Scolded by the teacher, he had a meek look on his face.
The children sat quietly and listened to the story.
2
Rare, archaic sense referring to something wondrous or supernatural. Not used in modern everyday Japanese; the common word for 'mysterious' is 不思議.
In classical texts, it is sometimes used as in 'a mysterious event'.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が神妙な顔をするto put on a solemn, subdued expression
He listened to the teacher's talk with a solemn, meek expression.
- 神妙にするto behave meekly/obediently
Scolded by his mother, the child behaved meekly.
- 神妙な態度で〈動詞〉to do something with a humble, submissive attitude
The suspect cooperated with the interrogation in a meek, submissive manner.