`克制` is more than just a word; it's a cornerstone of traditional Chinese social ethics, deeply influenced by Confucianism. At its heart, `克制` is linked to the ideal of `中庸 (zhōngyōng)`, the Doctrine of the Mean, which prizes moderation, balance, and the avoidance of extremes in all aspects of life. An outburst of extreme anger or even extreme joy can be seen as a lack of self-cultivation (`修养 - xiūyǎng`) and potentially disruptive to group harmony. A useful comparison is to contrast it with the modern Western emphasis on “authentic self-expression.” In many Western cultures, openly expressing one's feelings is often seen as honest and healthy. From a traditional Chinese perspective, however, unbridled self-expression can be perceived as childish, selfish, or inconsiderate. `克制` is the tool used to moderate one's behavior for the collective good. You restrain your own frustration to avoid embarrassing a colleague, thus preserving `面子 (miànzi)` (face) for everyone and maintaining a harmonious working environment. This makes `克制` a fundamentally social virtue, not just an individual one.
`克制` is a common and important word used in a variety of modern contexts.
For English speakers, the biggest challenge is distinguishing `克制` from similar but distinct concepts.