Restraint or reserve in behavior; holding back out of politeness, tact, or consideration for others.
彼は遠慮がちに発言したが、的を射ていた。
He spoke hesitantly but made a good point.
新人は上司に遠慮して意見を言わないことが多い。
Newcomers often hold back and don't voice opinions out of deference to their boss.
周囲への遠慮を忘れずに行動してください。
Please act considerately and don't forget to be mindful of those around you.
Declining or refraining from accepting an offer; politely saying no.
「ケーキ、いかがですか」「遠慮します、ありがとう。」
"Would you like some cake?" "No, thank you, I'll pass."
招待を受けたが、都合が悪いので遠慮しておいた。
I was invited, but since it was inconvenient I declined.
プレゼントは遠慮します、とはっきり言ってもいい。
It's okay to plainly say, "I'll pass on the gift."
Original/older sense: forethought or prudence — careful consideration in advance.
古い文献では『遠慮』が用心や先見の意味で使われている。
In old texts, '遠慮' is used in the sense of caution or forethought.