xīn xū

to have a guilty conscience

The Chinese phrase '心虚' literally translates to 'having an empty heart' and is used to describe a feeling of guilt or remorse. It refers to the psychological state of someone who feels uneasy or anxious due to their wrongdoings or sins. This expression can be used in various contexts, whether in personal relationships, academic situations, or professional misconduct, indicating that the person carries a sense of guilt that affects their behavior or peace of mind.