mián​lǐ​zhēn

needle in cotton wool

Senses

绵里针/ 綿裡針 mián​lǐ​zhēn needle in cotton wool

(metaphor) an iron fist in a velvet glove; internal strength or firmness hidden behind a gentle appearance; cruelty or a sharp sting hidden behind a friendly appearance; a wolf in sheep's clothing

References

variant 绵里针/綿裡針 绵里藏针/綿裡藏針
variant 绵里针/綿裡針 绵里裹针/綿裏裹針
same_as 绵里藏针/綿裡藏針 绵里针/綿裡針