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A2 noun #3,500 más común 10 min de lectura

脸色

liǎnsè Top 3,500

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 脸色 en 30 segundos

Explicación 脸色 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should think of '脸色' (liǎnsè) simply as 'face color.' At this stage, you are mostly learning colors like red, white, and yellow, and basic body parts like '脸' (face). You will see this word used in very simple sentences to describe how someone looks physically. For example, if someone is sick, their face might not look like its normal color. You might hear '他的脸色是白的' (His face color is white/pale). It is a noun that combines '脸' (face) and '色' (color). You don't need to worry about the deep social meanings yet. Just remember that if you want to talk about the color of someone's skin on their face, especially regarding health, this is the word you use. It is a very common word in daily life because people in China often care about each other's physical appearance as a sign of health. You might use it with simple adjectives like '好' (good) or '不好' (not good). For instance, '你的脸色好' means you look healthy today. It's a great way to start using descriptive language about people.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use '脸色' (liǎnsè) to describe emotions and more specific health states. You are now moving beyond just 'red' or 'white' and using words like '苍白' (pale) or '红润' (rosy). You will learn that '脸色不好' (liǎnsè bù hǎo) is a very common phrase that can mean someone looks sick OR someone looks angry. Context becomes important here. If you are in a hospital, it means sick. If you just broke a vase, it means your mother is angry! You should also learn the basic structure: 'Subject + 脸色 + Adjective.' For example, '妹妹的脸色很红' (Little sister's face is very red). You might also encounter the verb '变' (biàn - to change) with this word, as in '他的脸色变了' (His facial expression changed). This is a key word for describing people's reactions in simple stories or daily conversations. It helps you describe not just what people do, but how they look while they are doing it.

By B1, you should understand that '脸色' (liǎnsè) is a vital tool for social interaction in Chinese culture. You will start learning fixed phrases like '看人脸色' (kàn rén liǎnsè), which means to have to watch someone's mood and act accordingly. This is a very common expression in workplace or family contexts. You will also learn '给某人脸色看' (gěi mǒu rén liǎnsè kàn), which means to show someone you are angry by having a cold facial expression. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between '脸色' (overall look/mood) and '表情' (specific expression like a smile). You will use '脸色' to describe more complex situations, such as someone looking '阴沉' (gloomy) because of bad news or '铁青' (ashen/furious) because of an argument. Your vocabulary for describing 脸色 should expand to include more nuanced adjectives. You are now using the word to describe the 'social atmosphere' between people, not just the physical skin tone of one person.

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At the B2 level, you are expected to use '脸色' (liǎnsè) with a high degree of idiomatic accuracy. You will encounter it in more formal literature and news reports. You should understand the difference between '脸色' and more formal synonyms like '面色' (miànsè) or '气色' (qìsè). You will use 脸色 to describe psychological states and subtle social cues. For example, you might describe a character who is '脸色如常' (looking normal/calm) despite being in a high-pressure situation, which tells the reader something about their strength of character. You will also use it in more complex grammatical structures, such as '脸色难看得要命' (looking incredibly bad/angry). You should be comfortable using it in discussions about Chinese social concepts like 'mianzi' (face) and how one's 脸色 reflects their internal 'qi' or emotional balance. At this stage, you should be able to use the word to add descriptive 'flavor' to your storytelling, making your descriptions of people more vivid and culturally authentic.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of '脸色' (liǎnsè) should include its metaphorical and literary applications. You will see it in classical or semi-formal Chinese literature where it is used to describe the changing tides of fortune or the subtle power dynamics in a royal court or a corporate boardroom. You should be familiar with a wide range of four-character idioms (chengyu) that involve '色' (color/countenance) which are related to 脸色, such as '喜形于色' (xǐ xíng yú sè - joy showing on one's face) or '和颜悦色' (hé yán yuè sè - with a kind and pleasant countenance). You should be able to analyze how a writer uses the description of a character's 脸色 to foreshadow events or reveal hidden motives. Your use of the word should be effortless, and you should be able to pick up on the most subtle implications when someone 'gives you 脸色' in a professional setting. You understand that 脸色 is not just a physical trait but a dynamic social instrument used to communicate without words.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly grasp of '脸色' (liǎnsè) and its role in the Chinese language. You can discuss the word's etymological roots and its connection to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostics, where the 'five colors' of the face correspond to the five elements and five internal organs. You can use 脸色 in highly sophisticated contexts, such as psychological analysis or art criticism, to describe the 'countenance' of a portrait or the 'mood' of a scene. You are sensitive to the historical shifts in how facial appearance has been valued in Chinese culture. You can use the word in complex, multi-layered sentences that involve irony or sarcasm, such as '他那副脸色，真是让人过目不忘' (That look of his is truly unforgettable - implying it was uniquely terrible). You are essentially a native-level user who understands that 脸色 is a core component of the 'silent language' of Chinese interpersonal communication, and you can navigate any social situation by accurately reading and responding to the 脸色 of those around you.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

脸色 en 30 segundos

脸色 (liǎnsè) is a noun meaning 'complexion' or 'facial expression.' It is used to describe both a person's physical health and their current emotional mood or reaction.
Commonly used with adjectives like '苍白' (pale), '红润' (rosy), or '难看' (unpleasant/angry). It is a key indicator of internal feelings in Chinese social interactions.
Important idioms include '看人脸色' (reading someone's mood/being subservient) and '给脸色看' (showing displeasure). It is more than skin deep; it reflects social power and health.
Distinguish it from '脸' (physical face/honor) and '表情' (specific expressions). '脸色' is the overall aura and color of the face as a diagnostic and social tool.

The Chinese word 脸色 (liǎnsè) is a fascinating compound noun that literally translates to 'face color.' However, its usage in Mandarin is significantly broader and more nuanced than the English word 'complexion.' At its most basic level, it refers to the physical appearance and hue of a person's face, often used to gauge their physical health or well-being. If someone looks pale, yellow, or flushed, we talk about their 脸色. But beyond the biological, 脸色 is a vital social and emotional barometer in Chinese culture. It serves as a window into a person's internal state—their mood, their temper, and their reaction to a situation. When we say someone has a 'bad 脸色,' we might mean they look ill, but more often than not, we mean they look angry, displeased, or stern. In the high-context social environment of China, 'reading someone's 脸色' is an essential skill for navigating interpersonal relationships, workplace hierarchies, and family dynamics.

Physical Health: In medical or everyday health contexts, it describes skin tone. A '苍白' (cāngbái - pale) 脸色 suggests illness or shock, while a '红润' (hóngrùn - rosy) 脸色 indicates vitality.
Emotional State: It functions as a synonym for facial expression or mood. If a boss enters a meeting with a '阴沉' (yīnchén - gloomy/dark) 脸色, everyone knows to be careful.
Social Power: The phrase '看人脸色' (kàn rén liǎnsè) means to be dependent on others' whims or to have to please others constantly, reflecting a lower social or professional status.

你今天脸色不太好，是不是生病了？(Your complexion doesn't look good today; are you sick?)

看到考试成绩后，他的脸色一下子变了。(After seeing the exam results, his facial expression changed instantly.)

The term is deeply rooted in the concept of 'mianzi' (face/prestige). While '脸' (liǎn) refers to the physical face or one's reputation, '脸色' is the dynamic, visible manifestation of that face in a specific moment. It is the immediate feedback loop of human interaction. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the 脸色 is used as a diagnostic tool; the specific shade of yellow, red, or white can indicate which internal organ is out of balance. Thus, when a Chinese speaker comments on your 脸色, they might be expressing genuine concern for your health or subtly noting your emotional reaction to something they said. Understanding this word requires moving beyond the dictionary definition and observing how the 'color' of the face reflects the 'temperature' of the conversation.

Using 脸色 correctly involves understanding its role as both a physical descriptor and an emotional indicator. In sentence construction, it usually functions as a subject or an object that is modified by adjectives or acted upon by specific verbs. For physical descriptions, you will often find it modified by adjectives like '苍白' (pale), '红润' (rosy), '发黄' (yellowish), or '难看' (unpleasant/sickly). When used for emotions, the adjectives become more metaphorical, such as '阴沉' (gloomy), '铁青' (ashen/furious), or '和蔼' (kindly). One of the most common structures is '[Person] + 脸色 + [Adjective],' which is used to describe how someone looks in the moment.

Describing Health: To say someone looks healthy: '他的脸色很红润' (His complexion is very rosy). To say someone looks ill: '你的脸色怎么这么苍白？' (Why is your complexion so pale?).
Describing Mood: To describe a sudden change in emotion: '一提到这件事，他的脸色就变了' (As soon as this matter was mentioned, his expression changed). This implies a shift to anger or sadness.
Interpersonal Phrases: '看某人的脸色' (kàn mǒu rén de liǎnsè) means to read someone's mood to decide how to act. '给某人脸色看' (gěi mǒu rén liǎnsè kàn) means to treat someone coldly or show them your anger.

医生看了看病人的脸色，皱起了眉头。(The doctor looked at the patient's complexion and frowned.)

在家里，我总是得看我老婆的脸色行事。(At home, I always have to act according to my wife's mood.)

Furthermore, 脸色 is frequently used with the verb '变' (biàn - to change). A '脸色大变' (liǎnsè dà biàn) describes a drastic and sudden change in facial expression, usually due to shock, fear, or extreme anger. In literary contexts, you might see '脸色如土' (liǎnsè rú tǔ), meaning one's face is as ashen as dirt, indicating extreme terror. When you are writing or speaking, remember that 脸色 is an external sign of an internal state. It is not just about the skin; it is about the story the skin is telling. Whether you are describing a character in a story or a colleague in the office, using 脸色 adds a layer of descriptive depth that simple words like '生气' (angry) or '病了' (sick) cannot achieve.

You will encounter 脸色 in a variety of real-life scenarios in Chinese-speaking environments. One of the most common places is in a medical setting or during a casual greeting. In China, it is very common for friends or elderly relatives to comment on your physical appearance as a form of care. If you stayed up late or haven't been eating well, someone might say, '你最近脸色不好' (Your complexion hasn't been good lately). This isn't meant as an insult to your looks but as a genuine observation of your health. Similarly, in a hospital, a doctor will always observe a patient's 脸色 as part of the initial diagnosis, looking for signs of anemia, exhaustion, or internal distress.

The Workplace: Offices are prime locations for hearing this word. Employees might whisper about the manager's 脸色 to decide if it's a good time to ask for a day off. '老板今天脸色铁青，大家小心点' (The boss looks furious today, everyone be careful).
Family Life: In family dramas (TV shows) and real life, children are often taught to '看父母的脸色' (watch their parents' expressions) before making requests. It's a key part of traditional social education.
Literature and Media: In novels and movies, authors use 脸色 to show, rather than tell, a character's emotions. Instead of saying 'he was scared,' they write '他的脸色变得煞白' (his face turned deathly pale).

别看他的脸色行事，要有你自己的主见。(Don't just act according to his mood; have your own opinions.)

她总是给新来的同事脸色看。(She is always giving the new colleagues a hard time/cold look.)

You'll also hear it in idioms and set phrases. In news reports or political discussions, observers might analyze the 脸色 of world leaders during a summit to guess the outcome of their private meetings. Because Chinese culture values emotional restraint, the face often betrays what the tongue will not say. Therefore, 脸色 becomes the primary source of 'hidden' information. Whether it's a mother noticing her child's pale face after a long study session or a negotiator noticing a flicker of annoyance in an opponent's expression, 脸色 is the silent language of Chinese society. Paying attention to this word in context will help you understand the subtle undercurrents of Chinese communication.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 脸色 with 脸 (liǎn) or 表情 (biǎoqíng). While they all relate to the face, their usage is quite distinct. '脸' refers to the physical structure of the face or the abstract concept of 'honor' (giving/losing face). You cannot say '你的脸很好' to mean someone looks healthy; you must use '脸色.' Similarly, '表情' refers to a specific facial expression (a smile, a frown, a wink) that is usually intentional. '脸色' is more about the overall 'aura' or 'look' of the face, which is often involuntary. For example, you can 'make' an expression (做表情), but you can't 'make' a 脸色—it simply 'is' or it 'changes.'

Mistake: Using 脸色 for 'Honor': Incorrect: '这让我丢了脸色.' (This made me lose 脸色.) Correct: '这让我丢了脸.' (This made me lose face.) '脸色' is physical/emotional appearance, not reputation.
Mistake: Using 脸色 as a Verb: Incorrect: '他在脸色我.' Correct: '他在给我脸色看.' You must use the full phrase '给...脸色看' to express that someone is being cold to you.
Mistake: Confusing with 'Colors': Learners sometimes think 脸色 refers to makeup or actual paint on the face. It does not. For makeup, use '妆' (zhuāng).

Incorrect: 他的脸色很漂亮。(His 脸色 is beautiful.) Note: We don't usually call 脸色 'beautiful.' We call it '红润' (rosy) or '健康' (healthy).

Incorrect: 我不喜欢他的表情。(I don't like his expression - referring to his mood). Better: 我不喜欢他的脸色。(I don't like the way he's looking at me/his mood.)

Another nuance is the difference between '脸色' and '气色' (qìsè). '气色' is almost exclusively used for health and vitality. You would say '你气色不错' (You look healthy/vibrant) to compliment someone's recovery or overall state. '脸色,' however, is more neutral and can be used for both health and transient emotions. If you use '气色' when someone is angry, it will sound very strange. Finally, remember that '脸色' is a noun. You cannot say '他很脸色.' You must say '他的脸色很...' plus an adjective. Mastering these distinctions will make your Chinese sound much more natural and help you avoid the common pitfalls of direct translation from English.

To truly master 脸色, it is helpful to compare it with similar terms that describe a person's appearance or state. Mandarin has a rich vocabulary for describing the 'vibe' a person gives off. While 脸色 is the most common and versatile, other words offer more specific meanings that can elevate your descriptions in both spoken and written Chinese. Understanding the subtle differences between these words will help you choose the right one for the right situation.

气色 (qìsè): Focuses primarily on health, energy, and vitality. It is often used for compliments. Example: '你的气色越来越好了' (Your health/vitality is getting better and better).
神色 (shénsè): Focuses on the expression in the eyes and the spirit. It describes a person's mental state or reaction. Example: '神色慌张' (looking flustered/panicked).
面色 (miànsè): A more formal or medical version of 脸色. It is often used in literature or clinical reports. Example: '面色苍白' (pale complexion).
表情 (biǎoqíng): Refers to specific, often intentional facial expressions like a smile or a frown. Example: '幽默的表情' (a humorous expression).

Comparison: 脸色 (General) vs 神色 (Mental state). You can have a pale 脸色 from cold, but a nervous 神色 from a lie.

Comparison: 脸色 (Neutral) vs 气色 (Positive/Health). You can have a 'bad' 脸色 (angry), but 'bad' 气色 always means unhealthy.

In summary, while 脸色 is your 'go-to' word, being aware of these alternatives allows for more precise communication. If you want to praise someone's healthy glow after a vacation, '气色' is the most natural choice. If you are describing a suspect in a crime novel who looks guilty, '神色' would be more appropriate. If you are reading a medical textbook, you will see '面色.' However, for the vast majority of social interactions—whether you're noting that your friend looks tired or that your teacher looks angry—'脸色' is the perfect, multi-purpose tool. By learning these distinctions, you move from just 'speaking' Chinese to truly 'expressing' yourself in Chinese.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, 脸色 is one of the four main ways to diagnose a patient (望, wàng - observing). Doctors believe that different colors on the face represent different internal organs: green for liver, red for heart, yellow for spleen, white for lungs, and black for kidneys.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /liæn sɤ/

US /liæn sɤ/

In Mandarin, stress is usually balanced, but the fourth tone on 'sè' often gives it a perceived emphasis at the end of the word.

Rima con

点色 (diǎnsè) 减色 (jiǎnsè) 浅色 (qiǎnsè) 染色 (rǎnsè) 本色 (běnsè) 景色 (jǐngsè) 角色 (juésè) 特色 (tèsè)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing 'sè' like the English 'say'. It should be more like 'suh' with a falling tone.
Missing the third tone on 'liǎn', making it sound like 'lián' (second tone) which means 'even/connect'.
Confusing 'sè' with 'shì' (to be).
Pronouncing 'liǎn' as one syllable 'lan' without the 'i' sound.
Neglecting the tone change rules (though not applicable here, learners often flatten tones).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

The characters are relatively simple (A2 level), but the metaphorical meanings in literature can be tricky.

Escritura 3/5

Writing '脸' (liǎn) can be difficult for beginners due to the number of strokes.

Expresión oral 2/5

Tones are important here; 'liǎn' (3rd) and 'sè' (4th) need to be distinct.

Escucha 2/5

Easily recognizable in context, but can be confused with other 'sè' words if not careful.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

脸 (face) 颜色 (color) 好 (good) 看 (look) 变 (change)

Aprende después

气色 (vitality) 表情 (expression) 神态 (demeanor) 面子 (face/prestige) 察言观色 (idiom)

Avanzado

望闻问切 (TCM four diagnostic methods) 喜形于色 (idiom) 面不改色 (idiom) 正颜厉色 (idiom) 不动声色 (idiom)

Gramática que debes saber

The use of '得' for degree complements with 脸色.

他的脸色难看得要命。

Resultative complements with '变' (change).

他的脸色变得通红。

The '给...看' structure for showing an attitude.

她总是在给别人脸色看。

Using '一...就...' to show immediate reaction on the face.

他一紧张，脸色就会发白。

Adjective reduplication for vivid description.

她的脸色红扑扑的。

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Ejemplos por nivel

他的脸色很白。

His face color is very white (pale).

Subject + 脸色 + Adjective.

你的脸色很好看。

Your complexion looks good (healthy).

好看 (hǎokàn) here means healthy/good-looking.

老师的脸色红了。

The teacher's face turned red.

脸色 + Color + 了 (indicating change).

他的脸色不好。

His complexion is not good.

Negative form: 脸色 + 不好.

你脸色怎么了？

What happened to your complexion?

Using 怎么了 to ask about a change.

他脸色黄黄的。

His face is a bit yellowish.

Reduplication of adjective '黄黄的' for description.

我脸色不太好。

My complexion is not very good.

不太 (bù tài) means 'not very'.

看，他的脸色变了！

Look, his facial expression changed!

变了 (biàn le) indicates a change of state.

你脸色这么差，去休息吧。

Your complexion is so poor, go and rest.

差 (chà) is common for 'poor/bad' quality.

他生病了，脸色很苍白。

He is sick; his complexion is very pale.

苍白 (cāngbái) is a specific word for 'pale'.

看到妈妈生气，他的脸色变难看了。

Seeing his mother angry, his expression turned sour.

变难看 (biàn nánkàn) means to look upset/angry.

跑完步，她的脸色很红润。

After running, her complexion is very rosy.

红润 (hóngrùn) means healthy and rosy.

医生在看他的脸色。

The doctor is examining his complexion.

看 (kàn) as 'to examine/observe'.

别生气了，你的脸色都不好了。

Stop being angry; your face doesn't look good anymore.

都...了 (dōu...le) for emphasis.

他的脸色一下子变得很奇怪。

His facial expression suddenly became very strange.

一下子 (yí xià zi) means 'suddenly/in an instant'.

你今天的脸色比昨天好多了。

Your complexion today is much better than yesterday.

Comparison: A 比 B + Adjective + 多了.

在公司，他总是得看老板的脸色。

In the company, he always has to watch the boss's mood.

看...的脸色 (idiom: to read someone's mood).

她因为这件事给我脸色看。

She gave me a cold shoulder/angry look because of this.

给某人脸色看 (idiom: to show displeasure to someone).

他的脸色阴沉得像要下雨一样。

His face was as gloomy as if it were about to rain.

阴沉 (yīnchén) used metaphorically for mood.

听到这个消息，他的脸色瞬间变得铁青。

Hearing this news, his face instantly turned ashen (furious).

铁青 (tiěqīng) is a strong word for a face dark with rage.

不要总是看别人的脸色生活。

Don't always live according to other people's moods.

Social context: living for others' approval.

他虽然没说话，但脸色已经说明了一切。

Although he didn't speak, his facial expression said it all.

说明 (shuōmíng) - to explain/show.

看到孩子平安回来，她的脸色才缓和下来。

Seeing the child return safely, her expression finally softened.

缓和 (huǎnhé) - to soften/relax.

他那副难看的脸色让大家都不敢说话。

His sour expression made everyone afraid to speak.

那副 (nà fù) - measure word for a look or expression.

他强装笑脸，但脸色依然掩饰不住疲惫。

He forced a smile, but his complexion still couldn't hide his exhaustion.

掩饰 (yǎnshì) - to hide/mask.

医生通过观察脸色来初步判断病情。

The doctor makes a preliminary judgment of the illness by observing the complexion.

通过 (tōngguò) - through/by means of.

他的脸色由青转白，显然是被吓坏了。

His face turned from blue to white; he was obviously terrified.

由...转... (from... to...).

他是个喜怒不形于色的人，你很难从他的脸色看出什么。

He is someone who doesn't show joy or anger; it's hard to tell anything from his face.

喜怒不形于色 (idiom: to hide emotions).

由于长期的劳累，他的脸色呈现出一种病态的蜡黄。

Due to long-term fatigue, his complexion showed a sickly waxy yellow.

呈现 (chéngxiàn) - to present/show.

面对质疑，他的脸色依然镇定自若。

Facing questioning, his expression remained calm and composed.

镇定自若 (zhèndìng zìruò) - calm and collected.

他那阴晴不定的脸色让人难以捉摸。

His unpredictable mood/facial expressions make him hard to read.

阴晴不定 (yīnqíng búdìng) - unpredictable (like weather).

看到项目成功，他脸上终于露出了欣慰的脸色。

Seeing the project's success, a look of relief finally appeared on his face.

欣慰 (xīnwèi) - relieved and satisfied.

他那种居高临下的脸色，令在场的所有人都感到不快。

His condescending look made everyone present feel unpleasant.

居高临下 (jūgāolínxià) - condescending/haughty.

尽管他努力保持平静，但那一抹掠过脸色的不安还是出卖了他。

Though he tried to stay calm, the flash of unease across his face betrayed him.

出卖 (chūmài) - to betray/reveal.

在那个等级森严的家庭里，孩子们从小就学会了察言观色。

In that strictly hierarchical family, the children learned to read words and expressions from a young age.

察言观色 (cháyánguānsè) - to read someone's every word and look.

他的脸色极其难看，仿佛刚刚经历了一场巨大的灾难。

His expression was extremely terrible, as if he had just experienced a major disaster.

仿佛 (fǎngfú) - as if.

他那副唯唯诺诺、看人脸色行事的模样，真让人同情。

His submissive manner of acting according to others' whims is truly pitiful.

唯唯诺诺 (wěiwěinuònuò) - yes-man/submissive.

她那和颜悦色的脸色总能让紧张的气氛瞬间缓和。

Her kind and pleasant countenance always eases a tense atmosphere instantly.

和颜悦色 (héyán yuè sè) - amiable.

他的脸色因愤怒而变得扭曲。

His face became distorted with rage.

因...而... (because of... thus...).

岁月虽然在他的脸色留下了痕迹，但他的眼神依旧犀利。

Though time has left marks on his face, his gaze remains sharp.

留下痕迹 (liúxià hénjì) - to leave marks.

在这场博弈中，任何一丝微小的脸色变化都可能成为致命的破绽。

In this game, any tiny change in facial expression could become a fatal flaw.

博弈 (bóyì) - game/gambling/contest.

他那肃穆的脸色透着一种不容置疑的威严。

His solemn countenance exuded an unquestionable majesty.

不容置疑 (bùróng zhìyí) - beyond doubt.

文中通过对人物脸色细致入微的描写，刻画了其复杂的内心世界。

The text depicts the character's complex inner world through meticulous descriptions of their countenance.

细致入微 (xìzhì rùwēi) - meticulous/detailed.

他脸色惨白，犹如一张被揉皱的废纸，毫无生气。

His face was deathly pale, like a crumpled piece of scrap paper, devoid of life.

犹如 (yóurú) - just like.

在那位权臣面前，百官皆屏息凝神，不敢有丝毫怠慢的脸色。

In front of that powerful official, all the officers held their breath, not daring to show the slightest hint of negligence in their expressions.

屏息凝神 (píngxī níngshén) - holding one's breath.

他擅长掩盖真实情绪，那副虚伪的脸色骗过了所有人。

He is good at masking his true emotions; that hypocritical face of his deceived everyone.

虚伪 (xūwěi) - hypocritical.

即便是在生死关头，他依然面不改色，脸色从容得让人敬畏。

Even at the moment of life and death, he didn't change color; his calm expression was awe-inspiring.

面不改色 (miàn bù gǎi sè) - to not change color (remain calm).

这种察人脸色、趋炎附势的行为，在清流文人眼中是不屑一顾的。

This behavior of reading people's expressions and currying favor with the powerful is looked down upon by upright literati.

不屑一顾 (búxiè yígù) - to disdain/ignore.

Colocaciones comunes

脸色苍白

脸色红润

脸色难看

脸色阴沉

脸色铁青

脸色变了

观察脸色

恢复脸色

带点脸色

脸色蜡黄

Frases Comunes

看人脸色

— To depend on someone's mood; to have to please others. It describes a submissive or difficult social position.

我不想过那种看人脸色的日子。

给脸色看

— To show displeasure or treat someone coldly. It is an active way of showing anger.

他因为我迟到，整天给我脸色看。

脸色大变

— One's facial expression changes drastically, usually due to shock or fear.

听到这个死讯，他脸色大变。

脸色如常

— One's expression remains normal and calm despite external events.

面对危险，他依然脸色如常。

变脸色

— To suddenly become angry or change one's attitude.

说翻脸就翻脸，他变脸色比翻书还快。

脸色发青

— To turn blue/green in the face, usually from extreme anger, cold, or fear.

他气得脸色发青。

脸色煞白

— To turn deathly pale, often from extreme terror or shock.

被蛇咬了以后，他的脸色煞白。

脸色和蔼

— To have a kind and gentle facial expression.

奶奶总是脸色和蔼地看着我们。

看脸色行事

— To act according to the moods of others. Similar to 'reading the room' but more submissive.

在这个家里，大家都得看爷爷的脸色行事。

脸色铁青

— A face ashen with rage or severe illness.

他脸色铁青地走出了办公室。

Se confunde a menudo con

脸色 vs 脸 (liǎn)

Face (physical) or reputation. You lose '脸', but your '脸色' changes when you are embarrassed.

脸色 vs 表情 (biǎoqíng)

A specific, often intentional facial expression (smile/frown). 脸色 is the overall aura/color.

脸色 vs 颜色 (yánsè)

General word for 'color'. 脸色 is specifically the color of a person's face.

Modismos y expresiones

"喜形于色"

— Joy lights up one's face; one cannot hide their happiness.

他听到获奖的消息，喜形于色。

Literary

"和颜悦色"

— With a kind and pleasant countenance; amiable.

他总是和颜悦色地跟学生交流。

Formal

"察言观色"

— To observe someone's words and expressions carefully to gauge their mood.

他很会察言观色，知道什么时候该说话。

Neutral

"勃然变色"

— To suddenly change color in the face due to a burst of anger.

听了这话，他勃然变色，拍案而起。

Literary

"面不改色"

— To not change color; to remain calm and composed in the face of danger.

他面不改色地面对敌人的威胁。

Formal

"大惊失色"

— To turn pale with fright; to be struck with panic.

看到起火了，大家都不禁大惊失色。

Literary

"不动声色"

— Not a word or a movement; maintaining a calm exterior while hiding one's feelings.

他不动声色地观察着对手的每一个动作。

Neutral

"面如土色"

— One's face is the color of earth (ashen/pale) due to extreme fear.

他被吓得面如土色，浑身发抖。

Literary

"正颜厉色"

— With a severe and serious countenance.

老师正颜厉色地批评了作弊的学生。

Formal

"眉飞色舞"

— Eyebrows dancing and face glowing with joy; described as being very excited.

提起那次旅行，他总是眉飞色舞。

Idiomatic

Fácil de confundir

脸色 vs 气色 (qìsè)

Both describe the face's appearance.

气色 is almost always about health and vitality, usually positive. 脸色 is neutral and covers both health and emotions.

你病好以后，气色好多了。

脸色 vs 神色 (shénsè)

Both describe the face's expression.

神色 focuses on the 'spirit' and eyes, often used for mental states like panic or calm. 脸色 is more about the surface look and color.

他神色匆匆，好像有急事。

脸色 vs 面色 (miànsè)

They mean the same thing.

面色 is much more formal and often used in medical or literary contexts. 脸色 is the common spoken form.

患者面色苍白，脉搏微弱。

脸色 vs 容颜 (róngyán)

Both refer to the face.

容颜 is a poetic word for a person's beauty or youthful looks. 脸色 is functional and immediate.

岁月无法带走她的容颜。

脸色 vs 样子 (yàngzi)

Both describe how someone looks.

样子 is a very broad word for 'appearance' or 'manner.' 脸色 is specific to the face's color and expression.

他那个样子真好笑。

Patrones de oraciones

S + 脸色 + 很 + Adj.

他的脸色很好。

S + 脸色 + 变 + Adj + 了

她的脸色变红了。

看 + Person + 的脸色

别看他的脸色行事。

给 + Person + 脸色看

他在给我脸色看。

脸色 + Adj + 得 + Degree

脸色难看得不得了。

脸色 + 呈现出 + ...

脸色呈现出一种病态。

...脸色 + 犹如 + ...

脸色犹如一张废纸。

Any

一...脸色就...

他一尴尬，脸色就红了。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

脸 (face)

颜色 (color)

色调 (tone/hue)

脸色 (complexion)

神色 (expression)

Verbos

变色 (to change color)

失色 (to lose color/be eclipsed)

润色 (to touch up/polish writing)

Adjetivos

色盲 (color-blind)

色彩斑斓 (colorful)

色厉内荏 (stern in appearance but weak within)

Relacionado

面孔 (face)

表情 (expression)

神情 (look)

面貌 (appearance)

气色 (vitality)

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and literature.

Errores comunes

Using 脸色 for reputation. → 丢脸 (diū liǎn)
You can't say '丢了脸色' (lost face color). You must say '丢脸' (lost face/reputation).
Saying '我很脸色'. → 我的脸色不好。
脸色 is a noun, not an adjective. You must use a possessive structure or a subject-predicate structure.
Using 脸色 for makeup. → 妆 (zhuāng)
脸色 is the natural skin tone or expression. Makeup is '妆'.
Confusing 脸色 with 表情 in all cases. → Depends on context.
If you want to describe a smile, use 表情. If you want to describe a general mood/look, use 脸色.
Using '脸色' as a verb. → 给脸色看
You cannot say '他脸色我.' You must say '他给我脸色看.'

Consejos

Health vs. Mood

Always check the context. If someone says '你的脸色不好' after you've been working 12 hours, they mean you look tired. If they say it after an argument, they mean you look angry.

Pair with '变'

The verb '变' (biàn - to change) is the most natural partner for 脸色. It helps you describe dynamic reactions in stories.

Reading the Room

In China, '看人脸色' is not just a phrase; it's a social survival skill. Being sensitive to 脸色 shows you have high 'EQ' (Emotional Quotient).

Measure Words

When describing a specific look, use the measure word '副' (fù), as in '那副难看的脸色' (that unpleasant look).

Tone Accuracy

Make sure 'sè' is a sharp fourth tone. If it's too flat, it might be confused with other words.

Show, Don't Tell

Use 脸色 + Adjective to describe how a character feels. It's much more evocative than just saying 'he is sad'.

Giving Face

If you 'give someone 脸色看,' you are actively damaging the social harmony. Use this phrase to describe conflict.

TCM Connection

Remember that in China, your face is a map of your health. A yellow 脸色 might lead someone to suggest you eat more 'warming' foods.

Learn '察言观色'

This four-character idiom is the 'pro' version of '看脸色.' It means to be very skilled at reading people.

脸色 vs 气色

Use 气色 for compliments about health. Use 脸色 for almost everything else.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Lian' as the 'Line' of your 'Face' and 'Se' as the 'Set' of 'Colors' on it. The 'Face Color Set' tells people how you feel.

Asociación visual

Imagine a mood ring, but instead of a ring, it's a person's entire face changing from pale white (fear) to bright red (anger).

Word Web

Health Mood Anger Pale Rosy Social Cue Boss Doctor

Desafío

Try to describe the 脸色 of three different people you see today (a friend, a stranger, a character on TV) using the 'Subject + 脸色 + Adjective' pattern.

Origen de la palabra

The word is a compound of '脸' (liǎn), meaning face, and '色' (sè), meaning color or appearance. In ancient Chinese, '色' originally referred to the look on one's face or the 'qi' (energy) visible through the skin. '脸' is a relatively newer word in the history of Chinese, replacing the older '面' (miàn) in common speech.

Significado original: The original meaning was literally 'the color of the face,' used to judge a person's health or emotional state.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Contexto cultural

Be careful when telling someone their '脸色不好' (complexion is not good). In some contexts, it can sound like you are telling them they look unattractive. It is best used when there is a clear reason for concern about their health or mood.

In English, we might say 'You look a bit under the weather' or 'You look upset.' We don't use the word 'complexion' as frequently in social contexts as Chinese speakers use '脸色.'

The Analects of Confucius (discussing the importance of '色' in filial piety). Dream of the Red Chamber (frequent use of 脸色 to describe the complex emotions of characters in the Jia household). Lu Xun's stories (using 脸色 to depict the suffering of the Chinese people in the early 20th century).

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Health and Wellness

脸色红润 (rosy)
脸色苍白 (pale)
脸色发黄 (yellowish)
调理脸色 (improve complexion)

Workplace Dynamics

看老板脸色 (watch boss's mood)
脸色阴沉 (gloomy)
给同事脸色看 (show displeasure)
脸色铁青 (furious)

Family and Relationships

看妻子脸色 (watch wife's mood)
脸色和蔼 (kindly)
变了脸色 (changed attitude)
脸色难看 (upset)

Literature and Storytelling

脸色煞白 (deathly pale)
脸色如常 (calm)
大惊失色 (panic-stricken)
喜形于色 (joyful)

Medical Diagnosis

面色诊断 (facial diagnosis)
脸色晦暗 (dull complexion)
观察脸色 (observe complexion)
脸色变化 (changes in complexion)

Inicios de conversación

"你今天的脸色看起来很不错，有什么好事吗？"

"他的脸色突然变得很难看，是不是我说错话了？"

"在你们国家，人们会通过观察脸色来判断健康吗？"

"如果你老板今天脸色不好，你还会去找他请假吗？"

"你觉得‘看人脸色’生活是一种什么样的感觉？"

Temas para diario

描述一下你今天见到的一个人的脸色，并猜测他当时的心情。

你曾经因为别人的脸色而改变过自己的决定吗？请写下那次经历。

讨论一下在中国文化中，‘看人脸色’为什么是一个重要的社交技能。

写一段关于一个医生通过观察病人的脸色来发现某种秘密的故事。

你认为一个人的脸色真的能反映出他的内心世界吗？为什么？

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, 脸色 refers to the natural color or expression of the face. For makeup, you should use the word '妆' (zhuāng) or '化妆' (huàzhuāng). If you say someone's 脸色 is red, it implies they are blushing or healthy, not wearing red makeup.

Not at all. In most cases, it is an expression of concern. If a friend says this to you, they likely think you look tired or sick. However, in a tense social situation, it could mean they notice you are angry. It is rarely a comment on your actual beauty.

'看脸色' is more idiomatic and refers to gauging someone's general mood or temper, often in a social hierarchy. '看表情' is more literal, meaning to look at a specific expression someone is making, like a smile or a wink.

You can say '他总是面无表情' (He always has no expression) or more idiomatically '他喜怒不形于色' (His joy and anger do not show on his face/complexion).

Technically yes, but it is much more common for humans. For animals, we usually describe their overall appearance or behavior. However, in a fable or story where animals are personified, you could definitely use 脸色.

Literally, it means 'to give (someone) a (bad) facial color to look at.' It is a very common way to describe someone acting cold, sulky, or showing their displeasure through their face.

It is a neutral word. It is used in everyday speech, but it is also perfectly acceptable in formal writing. For very high-level literature or medical reports, '面色' might be preferred.

It sounds a bit redundant. It is better to say '脸色很红' (The complexion is very red) or '脸色红润' (The complexion is rosy/healthy).

Because both states result in an 'unpleasant' look on the face. In Chinese, the physical and the emotional are often linked. If you are extremely angry, your blood pressure might rise or you might turn pale, making your face look 'bad' or 'unpleasant' to others.

No. 脸色 is strictly for living beings, primarily humans. For the 'color' of a sunset, use '颜色' (yánsè) or '色彩' (sècǎi).

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