- 一丝不苟 yīsībùgǒu meticulousstrictly according to the rules; very conscientious and careful, neglecting no detail
- 不苟言笑 bùgǒuyánxiào serious and reservedserious in speech and manner; not speaking or laughing casually; often used to describe someone who is dignified, stern, or unapproachable
- 一笔不苟 yībǐbùgǒu meticulous calligraphynot even one stroke is negligent; to write characters where every stroke is placed perfectly
- 不苟言谈 bùgǒuyántán cautious in speechTo be careful about what one says; to speak with caution and not speak casually.