Looks modest. What is modesty? Word meaning, synonyms and antonyms

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Modesty is a personality trait acquired as a result of the internalization of behavioral patterns and values ​​of others. It is reflected in the ability to keep one's own emotional and behavioral manifestations within certain limits, to keep calm, moderation and restraint, to make minimal demands on other people and one's material and household arrangements. Modesty changes the lifestyle of a person, which provides for decency in communication, respect for decorum, leading a life without luxury.

It is believed that modesty adorns a person, presenting him without superfluous boasting, when a person’s virtues show through in actions, and rewards come without begging or demanding. Manifestations are possible in behavior through obedience to elders and humility in front of experienced ones, in clothes of inexpensive brands, discreet colors and models. Often modesty is used synonymously with shyness and timidity, but this is erroneous, even with similar manifestations, since modesty is a conscious act, choice, and other manifestations are unconscious and driven by subconscious or trauma.

What is modesty

The meaning of modesty is varied and depending on the scope of discussion, it will have its own adjustments, from the general ones there will remain undemanding and lack of desire to put oneself in the first place. In terms of arranging his life, he is characterized by a lack of desire for luxury and an understanding that insignificant resources are needed to feel comfortable. In terms of interpersonal interaction, modesty is characterized by a sincere interest in others, and more than in himself, such a person asks and listens more than talks and boasts. In addition, during communication, the dignity of all people is recognized, the rules accepted in society are manifested and observed.

Modesty is considered a character trait that allows a person to conform to the environment without attracting undue attention, in principle considering drawing attention to one's own person (by action or word, clothing or purchase) as unworthy behavior.

In many sets of rules (etiquette, decent social behavior, approved by the church) says that modesty adorns a person and is the most valuable trait that gives opportunities for and vision of others to learn from them, contributes to the development of kindness and, as a result, the establishment of good relationships. But modesty may not always provide positive influence in a society where some people live according to other laws, self-interest and cunning, using the modesty of others for their own benefit.

Modesty is not a character trait or, it manifests itself in behavior and reflects its certain line, and the motives for such behavior can also be different. A modest person can be from nobility or from the fact that he sincerely does not consider his merits to be outstanding, or maybe from or inability to present himself hiding behind a mask of modesty, waiting for others to present him. Many, knowing how much others value modest displays, can act only partially in the presence of the necessary person, whom they have to impress, while the rest of the time be brazen and loose. This is not true modesty, just as kindness pursuing its own selfish goals is not true kindness.

Modesty vs Shyness - What's the difference?

Modesty and shyness are often confused, and some consider these concepts to be synonymous, while being deeply mistaken. Modesty is responsible for a conscious line of behavior, and shyness refers to emotional experiences that are not subject to control. A person can be modest and not shy, as well as being shy but not modest - the two do not go together and are not interchangeable. If, while leading a modest lifestyle, a person does not show his goodness and achievements out of unwillingness, including the conscious sphere, then in case of embarrassment this will be caused by fear (to attract attention, not withstand criticism, etc.).

Shyness arises from uncertainty and such a person is more likely to remain silent and listen carefully to the interlocutor in order to correct his statements in accordance with someone else's point of view.

Modesty is always confident and a modest person listens to another out of sincere interest, and changes his mind only after the facts, and not out of a desire to please. A shy person remains open when interacting, although he does not put his personality in a priority, shyness can make a person avoid social contacts and new experiences. The first is about development and constant learning from the outside world, the second is about fear of the new and closed doors of opportunity.

Modesty can be learned or unlearned, its level and spheres of manifestation can be controlled, while shyness is a character trait and such changes will require much deeper inner work than adjusting a line of behavior. In order for a person to begin to be shy or stop, a series of corrective events are needed, either frustrating and traumatic, forcing them to hide, or corrective and stabilizing, helping to begin to actively manifest themselves in the external environment.

Disadvantages of modesty

In many places, modesty is presented in a favorable light and as one of the most desirable qualities, but, as in any concept, there are shortcomings and difficulties that sometimes interfere with a person.

Think about who extols modesty as a positive trait - usually these are people who benefit from your obedience (parents, teachers, church), those who themselves do not perceive the differences of others and strive to create a gray, unremarkable society. Once upon a time, such a strategy of behavior helped to survive, because even in the days of socialist power (and this generation of our grandmothers) it was dangerous to stand out, and all the benefits and skills were hidden, because they could entail punishments incompatible with life.

But modesty does not contribute to one's own promotion and realization - look at everyone famous people, read their biographies - they all loudly declared themselves and their skills, at every corner, until, finally, they were heard, and when they became noticeable, they grabbed the opportunity that presented itself, but modestly refused. Excessive modesty ruins a career, while such a person helps others, is silent about his successes, a less effective and less modest employee receives another raise and an increase in salary. Their projects are recognized as the best simply on the basis that often no one knows about the ideas of modest people or they learn from immodest friends who shout about the presence of a brilliant idea from their acquaintance.

How to get rid of modesty

After analyzing your own life, you may come across that it is precisely the negative aspects of the manifestation of modesty that are the majority, and then the question of how to get rid of it becomes relevant, but it will be more natural not to completely eradicate, but to reduce the number of manifestations or identify the most suffering areas and work with them. The influence reduction approach is less traumatic for the psyche, since with a complete and abrupt restructuring, there is a high chance of a quick return to the previous state. It is best to initially get to the bottom of the causes of excessive modesty, to understand whose words have sunk into the soul from early childhood and to correlate these requirements of behavior with the current situation in life. If your grandmother talked about modesty as the best feature of a girl to get married, and you developed it in communicating with men to such an extent that you became an invisible or cold wall, then think about whether your grandmother meant this level and whether those requirements men now as then.

Try to express yourself more often, express your opinion - even if you make a mistake, everyone will disagree with you, you will have to defend your position for a long time, speak anyway. You can try talking to strangers, and if you know that you always give up the leading role in a conversation, then specially start communication first. The fear of losing people's favor is easily leveled by your smile and a direct statement that you are pleased to communicate or it is interesting to hear a different opinion from yours. As well as when communicating, try to show exactly your own - in clothes and choice of places, listening to music and emotional reactions. There is no crime in going out in a short skirt or a yellow scarf, laughing at an important meeting or rejoicing loudly in a quiet place - perhaps by your example you will liberate a few more people nearby, and thanks to the manifestation of your individuality, they will pay attention to you. And here's what's important - those who are interested, such as you, real, and not feigned, will pay attention, which can open up new opportunities.

In yourself, with small overcomings every day - you don’t need to immediately climb onto the stage and tell the audience of many hundreds what a wonderful person you are, but be the first to meet a few people, tell at work what you came up with new project, tell casual acquaintances at a party about your occupation and about yourself as an excellent professional - those things, the practice of which every day will help overcome both excessive modesty and problems associated with your invisibility.

Speaker of the Medical and Psychological Center "PsychoMed"

One of the main character traits that is brought up from early childhood is modesty. This is a feature due to which a person does not go beyond what is permitted. He practically does not talk about his own merits, puts the interests of the interlocutor above his own, is sincere and simple in communication.

Concept of modesty

Dictionary Ozhegova understands modesty as restraint, moderation. Worthy behavior endows the person with delicacy and tolerance. It beautifies the person and his actions.

The definition of such a feature of character is found as early as the 17th century. People were called quiet, calm, unpretentious. They will carefully listen to the opponent, without imposing their point of view. This trait is indicative of education. Even from school, girls were taught the rules of good manners and etiquette.

Religion welcomes good breeding in all its manifestations: innocence, obedience, resignation. Voluntary renunciation of earthly pleasures frees the soul from the burden of problems and brings it closer to the Lord.

Knowing God's grace, the desire to flaunt feelings disappears. Even if a person has the opportunity to change the conditions of life for the better, he will remain modest in his convictions.

This feature protects against pathos and offenses. Encourages you to do noble deeds. Everyone chooses this way of life consciously and follows it to the end.

A modest person does not flaunt his dignity and good qualities, calmly treats wealth, keeps a distance in communication, does not make excessive demands. These properties develop a sense of significance.

Restraint is incompatible with hypocrisy. Unlike pride, it forms independence and naturalness in actions. Inequality excludes modesty, convincing that this property creates the basis for strong relationships in the family.

Modest responds to criticism with dignity and objectively perceives the world around him, which makes it possible to develop intellectually. Basically, this feature is inherent in girls. They are delicate, submissive, soft.

It is easier to conduct a dialogue with a balanced personality, she will always help, but she keeps a distance in communication. Modest people almost never become leaders, they are rarely equaled and not given as an example.

Some people position such a feature as negative property character. Restraint in actions can lead to inhibition of personal growth and the collapse of relationships. Some employees capitalize on the dependability of a good-natured colleague. These individuals rarely reach high levels in their careers, and they do not ask for a salary increase.

The main reasons for this property include:

• heredity. If at least one of the relatives in the family was distinguished by this feature, there is a possibility of inheriting the quality of modesty;
• innate factor. There is such a thing as genetics. This means that from birth, the child has a restraint in behavior;
• upbringing methods. The child is a mirror image of the parents. The words and actions of the mother and father play a paramount role in shaping the character of the baby. A sense of tact instilled from childhood will help him grow up as a worthy person.

What does restraint mean?

Some people mistake calmness for self-doubt or withdrawal. But these concepts are very different. Fortitude and prudence are a feature of modest personalities. And the indecisive individual often lacks an opinion.

Prudent conduct stems from several traits of character.

1. Respect for the interlocutor. Communication with a kind opponent makes you want to continue your acquaintance in an informal setting. He does not impose his point of view, he accepts the choice of the interlocutor even in case of disagreement of views.
2. Simplicity. Such people do not put their own victories first. The recognition of others is not so important for them. They are calm in reasoning and do not expect rewards.
3. Lack of boasting. A modest person will not make a cult out of his talent or admire successful purchases. He does not interfere in the conversation, does not give out unnecessary advice.
4. Restraint in everything: in clothes, in makeup, in statements. These individuals take time for themselves, but their appearance not vulgar. They will not do several things at the same time, and then draw attention to themselves.

The modesty of a person is a clear awareness of one's place in life, it saves one from self-praise and importunity. Provides the opportunity to take the best from life, despite personal problems. Being an incentive to achieve heights, this property contains a strong character and willpower.

You can find a calm nature at any age. The main thing is to show interest in others, worry about the elderly and children, help the needy, and also understand what statements will not hurt the opponent. It is impossible to instill restraint if a person in a rude manner points out the mistakes or physical defects of others, allows himself obscene language, publicly discusses the actions of family members or acquaintances.

It's hard to be at the top of everything. Such people do not prove their competence where it does not exist. It is important to understand your purpose in life and do what your heart desires. Softness of disposition eliminates the desire to stand out from the crowd.

Condemnation of other people's actions proves low moral values. Especially if talking about your own personal life is banned. Such an attitude towards others diminishes the importance of the interlocutor. Modesty in society is the absence of criticism of someone's behavior.

A person with such a nature knows how to admit defeat. He cannot perfectly master information in all spheres of activity, everyone is prone to make mistakes. Modest individuals only say what they are asked, without embellishing the circumstances. Exaggerated self-esteem repels other individuals.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is difficult to classify this property as a good or bad trait. Highlight the advantages and disadvantages of such a feature of nature.

Positive sides:

• friendly relations with others;
• lack of pride and superiority over others;
• independence from circumstances;
• peace of mind and high morality;
• sincerity and generosity.

Modesty of character is the ability to listen to the interlocutor, make concessions, take into account the circumstances and plans of another person.

There are also disadvantages. Excessive modesty can destroy relationships in the family. AT modern world unpretentiousness often gives a woman discomfort. The results of the conducted research proved that this property of character attracts men. However, in reality, they choose more liberated and accomplished women who are ready to take responsibility.

In solving important matters, modesty can harm, emphasizing that such a property is not always beneficial. Sometimes it is inconvenient for a person to be reminded of a monetary debt, so it is easier to forget about financial obligations. And the debtor is satisfied with this alignment and next time he will ask for a loan again.

To prevent such a character trait from developing into shyness or self-doubt, it is important not to focus on failures, engage in self-development, and increase the intellectual level.

Wisdom presupposes modesty of nature, it is long years work on yourself. It can both make a person happy and make him deeply unhappy. And everyone decides for himself in which direction to turn moral qualities, having achieved modesty.

Many people wonder what modesty is and whether such a quality is needed in the modern world. In fact, such a concept is very simple to characterize, because it means the absence of a desire for honors. different kind. Many scientists and philosophers interpret this concept and believe that it is an integral part of the human character. That is why it is very important to consider what is in this simple word as "modesty".

Misinterpretation of society

In the modern world, it is commonly believed that modesty is nothing more than a manifestation of weakness and indecision, but in fact this is far from the case. Many years of experience, as well as a huge number of existing facts, indicate that modesty is, first of all, an unusual manifestation of character and fortitude.

Introspective people come to the conclusion that being humble is being well-mannered and a moral person, and this is now very lacking in modern society.

What is modesty: important qualities

Do not think that modesty is a negative character trait. After all, if you look deeper into this, you can come to the conclusion that such a personal quality is manifested only in relation to yourself, but not to other people. One can notice such proportionality - the more talented a person is, the more modest he is. Modest people know how to be genuinely interested in the lives of others, while not exposing their own. In order to understand what modesty is, you need to pay attention to the behavior of people in society. Modest individuals will always comply with all the norms and morals adopted by society, which will greatly facilitate the existence of society itself.

The definition of the word modesty characterizes this trait as something that allows us to get rid of vanity and makes it possible to learn from other people's experience and knowledge.

Another very important advantage of this character trait is unobtrusiveness in communicating with other people. Modesty will never cause discomfort to other participants in the conversation, because a highly moral person will never cause inconvenience to other individuals in society.

However, many people, when asked what modesty is, say that it is weakness and downtroddenness.

Humility and shyness are different things.

For some reason, there is an opinion that modesty and shyness are two synonyms. However, this is not quite true. Shyness manifests itself in self-doubt. If you are afraid of something or it seems to you that the other person will not like you, then you are simply shy. Such a quality can arise in early childhood and accompany a person throughout his life.

In this case, you need to take care of your self-esteem and get rid of such an unpleasant quality. But the very word "modesty" means something completely different. A modest person is self-confident and well-mannered. He perfectly understands all his positive and negative qualities and does not try to flaunt his dignity. If you recall aphorisms with the word "modesty", then you should not forget that it is able to decorate a person.

In hardship or joy?

Each person is already unique by nature. And there is no need to prove it to anyone. Based on this, we can conclude that each of us has his own set of certain qualities, outlooks on life and habits. Such a set, as you have, will never be found in any other person. Of course, if you do not look too deeply, it may seem that we are all very similar to each other, and therefore, in order to somehow identify ourselves, you need to be immodest.

So what is the best thing for our life? If it seems to you that it is impossible to accurately give an unambiguous answer, then you are mistaken, and we will consider why.

Surely in your life there were cases when someone offended and humiliated you, thereby hurting your dignity. Try to remember how you felt. Or pay attention to the behavior of teenagers when they want to attract attention. Surely such situations cause you negative emotions.

What does religion think about modesty?

In fact, modesty is very important in any religion, be it Buddhism, Christianity or Islam. According to spiritual prescriptions, a person should be satisfied with what the Universe gives him. Abandoning material assets, you can cleanse your soul and live in real harmony with yourself and with the world around you.

Such a concept as pride is the antonym of modesty, because it prevents a person from showing all his best qualities. A proud person does not know how to forgive, is incapable of compassion and humility, therefore this concept is considered sinful from the point of view of religion.

How does this feature appear?

In fact, being humble is not easy. But, believe me, this character trait is very good, so try to bring it up in yourself. Let's take a look at how modesty works. A modest person always respects the opinions of the people around him and never proves his own. This concept reflects a high level of education. A modest person will not expose all his virtues and achievements and can always remain in the shadows.

However, he will not feel embarrassed. It is immediately evident that such a person behaves with dignity. Of course, the meaning of the word "modesty" determines the meaning of this concept, and the list of its positive sides can be continued indefinitely. Already today, think about your behavior, perhaps it was the main reason for your failures.

Proverbs

There is just a huge number of proverbs with the word "modesty" (Russian). Despite the fact that they are all different, their meaning is the same. Consider a few Russian folk proverbs in order to make sure of this:

• Humility is beautiful for everyone.
• Only a humble person can be a true friend.
• The more humble a person is, the smarter he is.
• Only great people can be truly humble.

As you can see, modesty largely defines a person, and folk wisdom is a confirmation of this.

Aphorisms

About this quality of the human personality, there are not only a huge number of proverbs, but also aphorisms. As you know, an aphorism is a smart and refined thought of a person that has a certain meaning and is often used by other people.

So, let's consider a few aphorisms devoted to such an important concept as modesty.

As Voltaire said: "It is very good to be modest, but you should not compare this concept with indifference, because an indifferent person simply cannot be modest."

As Jean-Jacques Rousseau said: "Fools cannot be modest and modesty is accepted as the greatest stupidity."

It is worth thinking about the words of Becher, who believed that a person who boasts of his modesty is already immodest. This is how arrogance is manifested, dressed in false clothes.

According to Plekhanov, the more talented a person is, the more modest he is.

As you can see, many famous personalities and sages left their philosophical thoughts about this concept. Long-term experience of the whole world testifies that modesty is a great asset of mankind. Therefore, we ourselves must learn to be humble and teach this to our children.

Word parsing

The word modesty refers to such a part of speech as a noun. It is feminine and is used only in the singular. You can modesty - "modest". Most often, this word is used in general vocabulary, but it can also be found in linguistics, religion, philosophy, psychology and medicine.

Basic synonyms

In fact, there are a large number of synonyms for the word modesty. Consider those of them that are most in demand. Most often in Russian speech such substitutes for this concept as “simplicity”, “moderation”, “restraint”, “chastity”, “artlessness” and “meekness” are used. However, any of them must be used very carefully, starting from the context.

A few words about antonyms

It is also worth considering antonyms for the word “modesty”. As you know, antonyms are words that have the opposite meaning to a certain concept. So, it would be appropriate to apply such antonyms to this word as “impudence”, “immodesty”, “lewdness”, “shamelessness”, “vulgarity”.

There is simply a huge number of antonyms that can be opposed to this concept, however, just like with synonyms, they must be used very carefully.

What is envy

At first glance, it may seem that such a thing as envy has nothing to do with modesty. But actually it is not. Modesty has its own rules. She lives in complete harmony with her abilities and desires, and does not at all pretend to what does not belong to her. Modesty is not characterized by such features as excessive lust, luxury, and excesses, so it will allow you to get much more in the material world than indiscretion.

The goal of each person is to educate in himself, first of all, moral qualities. Only in this case, you can quickly achieve your goals.

How to become humble

It is very important to learn to be humble. This will make it much easier to succeed. However, do not confuse this concept with false modesty and shyness. In this life, everything should be in moderation. First of all, pay attention to your behavior. Don't be arrogant and don't expose yourself. What should be yours will come to you at the right time. Respect the opinions of other people, always be attentive to others. In a conversation, listen more than you talk, and you will notice how people will reach out to you. And of course, develop yourself in every possible way, not only physically, but also spiritually.

findings

Being humble is a real talent. This quality was valued in antiquity, but nothing has changed over time. If modesty is a trait of your character, this already indicates that you are a harmoniously developed personality. Do not forget that your life is in your hands and only you can change it. So take care of yourself now. In the modern world, almost all people think only about the external manifestations of their lives, and few people think about its spiritual side. Do not forget that this was thought in ancient times, and nothing has changed since then. If you want to exist in a truly harmonious world, create it for yourself, and you will understand how wonderful this life is.

modesty, modesty, pl. no, female 1. distraction noun to humble. Modesty of temper. modesty behavior. Earning modesty. 2. Modest behavior, a modest way of acting and thinking. "... Not arrogance, but modesty adorns the Bolshevik." Stalin ... ... Explanatory Dictionary of Ushakov

This is a way to hear from others all the good things that we think about ourselves. Lawrence Peter The best decoration for a girl is modesty and a transparent dress. Evgeny Schwartz People who are unremarkable, of course, are right in preaching modesty. They are so easy... Consolidated encyclopedia of aphorisms

Cm … Synonym dictionary

modesty- Modesty suits everyone; A modest person does not appreciate his own merits (Dal's Dictionary). Modesty in communication is expressed in the absence of boasting, swagger, in restraint of expressions, judgments, in rare requests, and requests ... ... Culture of speech communication: Ethics. Pragmatics. Psychology

modesty- MODESTY, artlessness, artlessness, unpretentiousness, unpretentiousness, simplicity modest, unsophisticated, unwise, unpretentious, unpretentious, simple, simple, uncomplicated. simple MODEST, ... ... Dictionary-thesaurus of synonyms of Russian speech

MODEST, oh, oh; me, me, me, mnshy and me. Explanatory dictionary of Ozhegov. S.I. Ozhegov, N.Yu. Shvedova. 1949 1992 ... Explanatory dictionary of Ozhegov

modesty- Modesty decorates, but leaves hungry ... Original dictionary selection of aphorisms

modesty- great modesty excessive modesty exceptional modesty extraordinary modesty amazing modesty rare modesty amazing modesty ... Dictionary of Russian Idioms

Modesty- (from Krom “border”, cf. edge; literally meant “limitation”) - moderation in all desires, meekness and undemanding towards oneself, arrogance, lack of boastfulness. Possible manifestation- quiet voice, restrained body movements, ... ... encyclopedic Dictionary in psychology and pedagogy

Books

• Modesty adorns millionaires, Pavlova Inna Vladimirovna. Love, death and money rule the world. In this on own experience I had to be convinced by an attractive Muscovite who imprudently decided to sunbathe at a prestigious resort. Such a vacation to the enemy ...

Friday, 13 Feb 2015

Modest - moderate in all requirements, humble; meek and undemanding for himself; not putting his personality in front, not dreaming about himself; decent, quiet handling.
Explanatory Dictionary of the Russian Language by Vladimir Dahl

Modesty is the absence of a desire for luxury; for a modest person, a little is enough for comfort.
Humility is the lack of intention to exalt oneself; a modest person is sincerely interested in others no less, and often more than himself.
Modesty is respect for the norms of morality and morality accepted in society.
Humility is the willingness to acknowledge and respect the virtues of others.

Benefits of modesty

Modesty gives freedom - from self-confidence and vanity.
Modesty makes it possible to learn from the people around you, adopting their best qualities.
Modesty provides independence - from excessive comfort and luxury.
Humility provides an incentive - to achieve more; a humble person believes that before people appreciate him as a person, he must achieve results in his business.

Humility in everyday life

Hearing. A person who loves and knows how to listen with sincere interest to the interlocutor is modest.
Concessions. Yielding in ordinary everyday situations, a person shows modesty and respect for others.
Charity. A person who does charity work and does not advertise it demonstrates a number of virtues; modesty is one of them.
Family education. By cultivating a sincere interest in the people around them, and suppressing manifestations of selfishness, parents instill modesty in them.

How to achieve modesty

Modesty is largely the result of upbringing and the result of inner work person above him. Modesty is controlled by a person, and it can be cultivated in oneself, avoiding vanity in every possible way.
Relations with relatives. Showing respect and reverence for elders, interest in equals and concern for younger ones, a person develops modesty in himself.
Interest in the people around you. A modest person is sincerely interested in others; each of them has something to learn. Being interested in people and not sticking out his own “I”, a person learns modesty.
Help for those in need. Helping those who need it, and not expecting return in the form of glory, a person shows modesty.
Indulgence for mistakes. A modest person does not boast of education and does not point out to others their miscalculations; whether it be ignorance of some literary quotation or the wrong choice cutlery to eat fish.

Golden mean
Vanity, arrogance | total lack of modesty
Modesty
Self-deprecation | absolute modesty, the flip side of pride
Popular expressions about modesty

Excessive modesty is nothing but hidden pride.
- A. Chenier -

One must beware of bringing modesty to the point of humiliation.
- A. Bakikhanov -

Achieve modesty if you want to achieve wisdom. Increase modesty if you have already attained wisdom.
- E.P. Blavatsky -

Be humble - this is the kind of pride that irritates those around you the least.
- Jules Renard -

Venerable Macarius of Optina / Letters Reverend Macarius Optinsky. About humility, self-reproach and patience of sorrows
The Monk Optina Elder Macarius during his lifetime was an example of special modesty and humility. And his letters to the laity are imbued with the same spirit of acquiring true Christian virtues.
Fyodor Dostoevsky / Poor people
Dostoevsky's novel "Poor People" is interesting not so much for its social pathos, but for the vivid image of the modest official Makar Devushkin, which the author managed to reveal in all the glory and nobility of his soul, using the form of correspondence between the hero and his beloved.

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