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B2 noun 14분 분량

外貌

wai mao

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 外貌 30초 만에

설명 外貌 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe things. While '外貌' (wàimào) might be a bit advanced for a total beginner, it is helpful to know it means 'how someone looks.' At this stage, you mostly use simple adjectives like '漂亮' (pretty), '帅' (handsome), or '高' (tall). Think of '外貌' as the big category for all those words. If you want to say 'His looks are good,' you might say '他的外貌很好' (Tā de wàimào hěn hǎo), though usually, you would just say '他很帅.' Just remember that '外' means 'outside' and '貌' means 'face/look.' It is like the 'outside look' of a person. You might see this word in very simple picture books where you have to point to the person with the 'good appearance.' Don't worry about using it in long sentences yet; just recognize it when you see it in a description of a person.

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By A2, you are learning to give more detailed descriptions of people and things. You can use '外貌' to introduce a description. For example, '介绍一下他的外貌' (Jièshào yīxià tā de wàimào) means 'Introduce his appearance.' You are starting to understand that '外貌' is a noun. You might use it when talking about why you like a certain celebrity—maybe because of their '外貌.' You also learn that it can apply to animals or toys. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between '外貌' (how they look) and '性格' (xìnggé - personality). A common sentence you might practice is: '我不只喜欢他的外貌，也喜欢他的性格' (I don't just like his appearance, I also like his personality). This shows you can talk about two different sides of a person.

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At the B1 level, you are becoming more comfortable with abstract nouns. '外貌' is a very useful word for writing short stories or describing people in more than just basic terms. You might use it to talk about how someone has changed over time: '几年不见，他的外貌变了很多' (I haven't seen him for years, and his appearance has changed a lot). You also start to see '外貌' in more formal contexts, like in a news report or a short article about fashion. You should be able to use it with verbs like '改变' (change) or '描写' (describe). You are also learning that it is a neutral word—it doesn't mean someone is beautiful or ugly, it just refers to the look itself. You might also start to hear the slang '外貌协会' (lookism association) and understand that it refers to people who care a lot about looks.

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At the B2 level, which is where this word is officially categorized, you should use '外貌' with precision and in more complex sentence structures. You understand that it is a formal noun and can use it in discussions about social issues, such as '外貌焦虑' (appearance anxiety) or '外貌歧视' (lookism). You can use it to describe the 'exterior' of objects and buildings as well as people. You are expected to use it in written essays, such as '外貌对找工作的影响' (The influence of appearance on finding a job). You also understand the difference between '外貌' and its synonyms like '外观,' '容貌,' and '仪表.' You should be able to handle collocations like '出众的外貌' (outstanding appearance) or '平凡的外貌' (ordinary appearance) and use them to add depth to your descriptions. You are also aware of the cultural context—how 'inner beauty' is often contrasted with '外貌' in Chinese literature and ethics.

As a C1 learner, you use '外貌' naturally in both formal and professional contexts. You can discuss the psychological impact of '外貌' on self-esteem or its role in evolutionary biology. You might use it in literary analysis, discussing how a character's '外貌描写' reflects their internal state or social status. You are comfortable with idiomatic expressions and compound words involving '外貌.' You can participate in high-level debates about whether society places too much emphasis on '外貌' and use sophisticated vocabulary to support your arguments. You also recognize the nuance of when not to use it—for example, choosing '容貌' for a more poetic touch or '仪表' to emphasize professional conduct. Your sentences are long and use varied structures, such as '尽管他的外貌不尽如人意，但他那迷人的气质却让人无法忽视' (Despite his less-than-ideal appearance, his charming temperament is impossible to ignore).

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At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of '外貌' and can use it in highly specialized or philosophical discussions. You might analyze the '外貌' of a historical era's architecture or the '外貌' of a philosophical concept as presented in text. You understand the deepest etymological roots of the word and how it has evolved in Chinese literature from the classical to the modern era. You can use it with a high degree of irony or literary flair. You are also sensitive to the subtle connotations it carries in different regional dialects or specific subcultures (like the 'ACGN' community's focus on character design). In writing, you use '外貌' as a tool for precise categorization, often contrasting it with '本质' (essence) or '内涵' (connotation). You can write professional critiques of design or fashion where '外貌' is just one of many technical terms you use with ease. Your understanding is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

外貌 30초 만에

外貌 is a formal noun meaning 'appearance' or 'looks,' used for people, animals, and objects.
It combines '外' (outside) and '貌' (face/look) to describe the visible exterior surface.
Commonly used in literature, news, and social discussions about beauty standards and identity.
It is a neutral term, often contrasted with 'inner beauty' or 'personality' in Chinese culture.

The Chinese term 外貌 (wàimào) is a comprehensive noun that refers to the physical appearance, exterior look, or outward features of a person, animal, or even an inanimate object. Composed of two characters—外 (wài) meaning 'outside' or 'external' and 貌 (mào) meaning 'appearance' or 'face'—it functions as a formal and objective way to describe how something looks to the naked eye. While it is most frequently applied to human beings to discuss their facial features, body type, and overall aesthetic, it is also highly versatile in academic and descriptive contexts. In modern Chinese society, the word carries significant weight due to the rise of 'appearance-based' social dynamics, often discussed in the context of 外貌焦虑 (wàimào jiāolǜ) or appearance anxiety. Unlike more casual terms like 样子 (yàngzi), which can imply behavior or state, 外貌 is strictly focused on the visual surface. It is the word you would use in a police report to describe a suspect, in a novel to introduce a protagonist's striking features, or in a psychological study about first impressions.

Objective Description: When using 外貌, the speaker is usually providing a factual or analytical observation. For example, '他的外貌很普通' (His appearance is very ordinary) suggests a neutral assessment rather than a personal judgment of his character.
Societal Context: In the era of social media, 外貌 is frequently paired with words like 协会 (association) to form '外貌协会' (wàimào xiéhuì), a slang term for people who judge others solely by their looks or prefer dating only attractive people.

我们不应该仅仅根据一个人的外貌来评判他的能力。(We should not judge a person's ability solely based on their appearance.)

Understanding the nuance of 外貌 involves recognizing its formal register. In a medical or forensic setting, a doctor might describe the '外貌特征' (physical characteristics) of a patient. In literature, a writer might spend several paragraphs detailing the '外貌描写' (description of appearance) to build a character's persona. It is also used in biological sciences to describe the phenotype of species. Because it is a noun, it often follows possessive particles or serves as the subject of a sentence. It is rarely used as a direct adjective; one would not say '他很外貌,' but rather '他很注重外貌' (He pays great attention to his appearance). This distinction is crucial for B2 level learners who are moving beyond basic adjectives like '漂亮' (pretty) or '帅' (handsome) toward abstract nouns that categorize these qualities.

这座建筑的外貌非常现代化。(The exterior appearance of this building is very modern.)

Furthermore, the word is often contrasted with 内心 (nèixīn - inner heart/mind). This duality is a common theme in Chinese philosophy and daily conversation—the idea that '外貌' is fleeting and superficial, while '内心' is enduring and essential. Phrases like '外貌美' (outward beauty) vs '内在美' (inner beauty) are staples of moral education. In business, the 外貌 of a product (its packaging or industrial design) can determine its initial market success, leading to discussions about the '外貌设计' (exterior design). As you progress in your Chinese studies, you will find 外貌 appearing in news reports about facial recognition technology (人脸识别), where the system analyzes the '外貌数据' (appearance data) of individuals. It is a high-frequency word in any discussion involving identity, aesthetics, or visual perception.

Formal Usage: Used in news, literature, and official documents to describe physical traits without emotional bias.

虽然他已经六十岁了，但外貌看起来依然年轻。(Even though he is already sixty, his appearance still looks young.)

Using 外貌 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun. It cannot be used as a verb or a direct adjective. Instead, it usually functions as the object of a verb or the subject of a descriptive clause. Common verbs that pair with 外貌 include 描写 (miáoxiě - to describe), 改变 (gǎibiàn - to change), 注重 (zhùzhòng - to value/focus on), and 恢复 (huīfù - to restore). For instance, if someone undergoes plastic surgery, you would say they '改变了外貌' (changed their appearance). If a writer is detailing a character's face, they are performing '外貌描写'. In a sentence, it often takes modifiers like '出众的' (outstanding), '平凡的' (ordinary), or '惊人的' (startling) to provide specific detail.

Subject Position: '他的外貌引起了大家的注意。' (His appearance attracted everyone's attention.) Here, 外貌 is the thing performing the action of attracting notice.
Object Position: '你不能只看外貌。' (You cannot only look at appearance.) This is a common moral advice in Chinese culture.

他在小说中对女主角的外貌进行了详细的刻画。(In the novel, he gave a detailed portrayal of the heroine's appearance.)

Another important grammatical structure is the use of the possessive 的 (de). You will frequently see '人的外貌' (a person's appearance) or '产品的外貌' (a product's appearance). When describing the quality of an appearance, Chinese speakers often use the structure '[Noun] + 的外貌 + [Adjective]'. For example, '她那出众的外貌让她在人群中脱颖而出' (Her outstanding appearance made her stand out in the crowd). Note that while 外貌 refers to the whole look, it is often used when the speaker wants to remain somewhat detached or professional. If you were talking to a friend about someone's face specifically, you might use 长相 (zhǎngxiàng), but in a discussion about beauty standards in society, 外貌 is the appropriate term.

由于长期的户外工作，他的外貌显得比实际年龄老。(Due to long-term outdoor work, his appearance looks older than his actual age.)

In more advanced constructions, 外貌 can be part of a compound noun. 外貌特征 (wàimào tèzhēng) means 'physical characteristics,' often used in scientific or investigative contexts. 外貌协会 (wàimào xiéhuì), as mentioned, is a colloquialism for 'Appearance Association,' referring to people who are picky about looks. There is also the concept of 外貌管理 (wàimào guǎnlǐ), which refers to the effort one puts into maintaining their look through fitness, skincare, and fashion. This term is popular in the workplace and self-improvement spheres. When using these compounds, keep in mind that 外貌 always maintains its role as the 'exterior' or 'visual' component of the concept.

Comparative Use: '两兄弟的外貌惊人地相似。' (The appearance of the two brothers is strikingly similar.)

虽然这款手机的外貌一般，但功能非常强大。(Although the appearance of this phone is average, its functions are very powerful.)

You will encounter 外貌 in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from formal media to casual social critiques. In the mass media, particularly on news programs or in newspapers, 外貌 is used when reporting on missing persons or criminals. For example, a news anchor might say, '警方公布了嫌疑人的外貌特征' (The police released the physical characteristics of the suspect). This usage is precise and devoid of personal opinion. In literary works, authors use 外貌 to paint a vivid picture of their characters. You will find it in descriptive passages that detail a person's height, facial structure, and skin tone, often using it to contrast with the character's hidden personality traits.

Social Media & Pop Culture: On platforms like Weibo or Little Red Book (Xiaohongshu), users frequently discuss '外貌焦虑' (appearance anxiety). Influencers might share tips on '外貌升级' (improving one's look) through makeup or fashion.
Professional Settings: In job interviews or HR discussions, while it is often discouraged to judge based on looks, the term '外貌仪表' (appearance and demeanor) is still used to describe the professional image a candidate presents.

在这个看脸的时代，很多人都患有外貌焦虑。(In this 'face-judging' era, many people suffer from appearance anxiety.)

In scientific and academic contexts, 外貌 is used to describe biological phenotypes. A biologist might discuss how the '外貌' of a species has evolved to camouflage in its environment. Similarly, in industrial design, engineers and marketers discuss the '外貌设计' of a car or a computer, focusing on how the external aesthetics influence consumer behavior. You will also hear it in legal and medical settings. For instance, a victim might be asked to describe the '外貌' of an assailant, or a plastic surgeon will discuss the '外貌改善' (improvement of appearance) with a patient. It is a word that bridges the gap between the mundane (how I look today) and the technical (the external specifications of an entity).

他通过健身彻底改变了自己的外貌。(He completely changed his appearance through fitness.)

Finally, in daily conversations, the word is often used to discuss social trends or personal values. You might hear friends debating whether '外貌重要还是才华重要' (Is appearance more important or talent?). It is a central theme in modern Chinese dating culture, where apps and social expectations place a high premium on one's visual presentation. Even in advertisements, you will see slogans like '提升你的外貌魅力' (Enhance your appearance charm). Whether it's a serious discussion about '外貌歧视' (lookism) in the workplace or a casual comment about a celebrity's '外貌变化' (change in look), this word is ubiquitous in any dialogue concerning the visual world we inhabit.

Psychological Context: Psychologists use the term to discuss '外貌自尊' (appearance self-esteem) and how it affects mental health.

对于一个演员来说，外貌既是优势也可能是局限。(For an actor, appearance is both an advantage and a potential limitation.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 外貌 is confusing it with its more casual counterparts, 样子 (yàngzi) and 长相 (zhǎngxiàng). While all three relate to how something looks, their usage is quite distinct. 样子 is very broad; it can mean 'appearance,' but also 'manner,' 'likelihood,' or 'style.' For example, '看样子要下雨' (It looks like it's going to rain) uses 样子 to mean 'likelihood,' where 外貌 would be completely wrong. 长相 specifically refers to facial features and is almost exclusively used for people. You wouldn't describe the '长相' of a house, but you could describe its '外貌'. Using 外貌 when you mean 样子 makes you sound overly formal or even robotic in a casual setting.

Mistake: Using it as an Adjective: Incorrect: '他很外貌。' Correct: '他长得很帅' or '他很注重外貌。' 外貌 is a noun and cannot directly follow '很' (hěn).
Mistake: Confusing with 'Looks Like': Incorrect: '他的外貌像他的爸爸。' Correct: '他长得像他的爸爸。' While grammatically 'his appearance is like his father's' is okay, in Chinese, the verb '长得' (zhǎng de) is much more natural for resemblance.

错误：他的外貌很美。 (Often sounds too clinical; better to say '她长得很漂亮'.)

Another error involves the scope of the word. 外貌 refers to the entire exterior. Sometimes learners use it when they should be using 容貌 (róngmào), which specifically refers to the face and facial beauty. If you are complimenting a woman's face, '容貌' is more poetic and specific. If you are talking about the exterior of a building, '外观' (wàiguān) is often preferred over '外貌', though both are technically correct. The mistake here is not necessarily grammatical but stylistic. Using '外貌' for a car might sound a bit like you are personifying the car, whereas '外观' is the standard industrial term. Furthermore, do not confuse 外貌 with 表情 (biǎoqíng), which refers to facial expressions. One's '外貌' (features) doesn't change when they smile, but their '表情' (expression) does.

注意：不要把“外貌”和“性格”混为一谈。 (Note: Do not confuse 'appearance' with 'personality'.)

Lastly, be careful with the phrase '外貌协会' (wàimào xiéhuì). While it's a common slang term, using it in a very formal business meeting might be inappropriate. It's best reserved for social contexts or lighthearted articles. Also, ensure you aren't overusing the word. In English, we might say 'his looks' in every other sentence, but in Chinese, once the subject is established, you often omit the noun or use more specific verbs like '看起来' (looks like) or '显得' (appears to be). Over-repetition of '外貌' can make your writing feel clunky. As a B2 learner, the goal is to use this word precisely to categorize a topic, then use more varied vocabulary to describe the details of that appearance.

Collocation Error: People often say '看外貌' (look at appearance), which is correct. However, '见外貌' (see appearance) is rarely used; '看见' or '看到' is used for the act of seeing, while '看' is used for the act of judging or considering.

错误：他有一张帅气的外貌。 (Correct: 他有出众的外貌 or 他长得帅. You 'have' an appearance, but you don't 'have a face of appearance'.)

In Chinese, several words share a semantic field with 外貌, but they differ in register, scope, and nuance. Understanding these differences is key to reaching C1/C2 proficiency. The most common synonym is 外观 (wàiguān). While 外貌 is predominantly used for living beings (humans and animals), 外观 is almost exclusively used for objects, buildings, and products. You would talk about the '外观' of a new smartphone or the '外观' of a museum. If you use 外貌 for a car, you are giving it a human-like quality; if you use 外观 for a person, you are treating them like an object, which can sound very cold or clinical.

外貌 vs. 容貌 (róngmào): 外貌 covers the whole body and general look. 容貌 focuses specifically on the face and is often used when discussing beauty or aging. You might say '容貌老去' (one's facial beauty fades with age).
外貌 vs. 长相 (zhǎngxiàng): 长相 is more informal and specifically refers to facial features. It's the word you use when saying someone looks like their mother or is 'good-looking' (长相出众).

比较：这栋建筑的外观很宏伟，而那个人的外貌很和蔼。 (Comparison: The exterior of this building is grand, while that person's appearance is kind.)

Another important word is 形象 (xíngxiàng). While 外貌 is strictly visual and physical, 形象 is 'image' in a broader sense, including reputation, behavior, and clothing. A company has a 'corporate image' (企业形象), and a person might want to maintain a 'professional image' (专业形象). If you say someone '注意形象' (pays attention to their image), it implies they care about how they are perceived overall, not just their physical features. Then there is 仪表 (yíbiǎo), which refers to one's appearance and bearing, specifically in formal contexts. '仪表堂堂' is a high compliment for a man who looks dignified and handsome. Finally, 皮囊 (pínáng) is a literary and somewhat cynical term meaning 'skin bag,' used to emphasize that physical appearance is just a shell for the soul.

他不在乎外貌，他在乎的是内在。 (He doesn't care about appearance; what he cares about is the inner self.)

In the modern digital age, 颜值 (yánzhí) has become the most popular alternative in casual speech. Literally 'face value,' it's used to quantify how attractive someone is. You might hear '他的颜值很高' (He has high 'face value' / is very handsome). However, you should never use 颜值 in a formal essay or a serious report. 外表 (wàibiǎo) is another close synonym, often used interchangeably with 外貌, but it can also refer to the surface of non-living things, similar to 外观. The choice between these words depends on whether you are being technical, poetic, casual, or judgmental. Mastering these synonyms allows you to describe the world with the precision expected of an advanced Chinese speaker.

外貌 vs. 仪表 (yíbiǎo): 仪表 implies a combination of appearance, clothing, and mannerisms, usually in a professional or formal setting. 外貌 is just the physical look.

虽然他的外貌并不出众，但他的仪表非常大方。 (Although his appearance is not outstanding, his demeanor is very elegant.)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

In ancient Chinese philosophy, '貌' was one of the 'Five Matters' (五事) alongside appearance, speech, seeing, hearing, and thinking, showing how central looks were to one's character assessment.

발음 가이드

UK /waɪ mɑːʊ/

US /waɪ maʊ/

Both syllables are stressed equally as they both carry the 4th tone.

라임이 맞는 단어

赛貌 (sàimào) 代貌 (dàimào) 盖貌 (gàimào) 快貌 (kuàimào) 卖貌 (màimào) 派貌 (pàimào) 在貌 (zàimào) 带貌 (dàimào)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing 'wài' with a rising tone (like 'wái').
Pronouncing 'mào' like 'mǎo' (3rd tone).
Confusing 'mào' with 'māo' (cat).
Not making the 'ai' in 'wài' long enough.
Merging the two syllables into one blurred sound.

난이도

독해 3/5

The characters are common, but '貌' can be tricky to write.

쓰기 4/5

Writing '貌' correctly requires attention to the radical and strokes.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward with the two 4th tones.

듣기 2/5

Easily recognizable in context.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

外漂亮帅高样子

다음에 배울 것

容貌仪表形象特征审美

고급

相由心生皮囊气质韵味轮廓

알아야 할 문법

Noun as subject/object

外貌决定了第一印象。

Attribute with 的

他那出众的外貌。

Adverbial phrases with 根据

根据外貌来判断。

Conjunctions (虽然...但是)

虽然外貌平凡，但是内心善良。

Verb-Object constructions

描写外貌，改变外貌。

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수준별 예문

他的外貌很漂亮。

His appearance is very beautiful.

Simple Subject + Adjective structure.

我不看外貌。

I don't look at appearance.

外貌 as the object of the verb 看.

猫的外貌很可爱。

The cat's appearance is very cute.

Possessive particle 的 used with 外貌.

他的外貌变了。

His appearance has changed.

Use of the particle 了 to indicate change.

外貌重要吗？

Is appearance important?

Simple question using 吗.

她有好的外貌。

She has a good appearance.

Using 有 to show possession of a quality.

看外貌，他很高。

Looking at his appearance, he is very tall.

Using '看...' as an introductory phrase.

外貌不是一切。

Appearance is not everything.

Negation using 不是.

请你描写一下他的外貌。

Please describe his appearance.

Use of the verb 描写 (describe).

虽然他外貌普通，但人很好。

Although his appearance is ordinary, he is a good person.

Use of although (虽然...但是...).

他的外貌像他的爸爸。

His appearance is like his father's.

Using 像 to show similarity.

你要注意自己的外貌。

You need to pay attention to your appearance.

Use of 注意 (pay attention to).

这个玩具的外貌很特别。

The appearance of this toy is very special.

Applying 外貌 to an object.

他因为外貌而出名。

He became famous because of his looks.

Using 因为...而... to show cause and effect.

外貌可以改变吗？

Can appearance be changed?

Use of modal verb 可以.

我不喜欢他的外貌。

I don't like his appearance.

Negative preference.

几年不见，她的外貌发生了很大的变化。

Having not seen her for years, her appearance has undergone great changes.

Use of 发生...变化 (undergo change).

我们不能只根据外貌来评判一个人。

We cannot judge a person based solely on their appearance.

Using 根据...来... (based on).

这本小说对主角的外貌描写非常详细。

The description of the protagonist's appearance in this novel is very detailed.

外貌描写 as a compound noun phrase.

他很注重外貌管理，每天都健身。

He pays great attention to appearance management and works out every day.

Introduction of the concept 外貌管理.

这种植物的外貌非常奇特。

The appearance of this plant is very peculiar.

Using 外貌 for biological descriptions.

外貌美固然重要，但内在美更重要。

Outer beauty is admittedly important, but inner beauty is more important.

Using 固然...但... (admittedly... but...).

他试图通过化妆来改善自己的外貌。

He tried to improve his appearance through makeup.

Using 通过...来... (through ... to ...).

演员的外貌往往决定了他们能演什么角色。

An actor's appearance often determines what roles they can play.

Subject clause followed by 决定 (determine).

在现代社会，外貌焦虑已经成为一个普遍的问题。

In modern society, appearance anxiety has become a widespread problem.

Noun phrase 外貌焦虑 as the subject.

警方正在根据目击者的描述还原嫌疑人的外貌。

The police are reconstructing the suspect's appearance based on eyewitness descriptions.

Use of 还原 (reconstruct/restore).

外貌协会的人往往会错过很多优秀的朋友。

People who judge by looks often miss out on many excellent friends.

Use of the slang term 外貌协会.

这款产品的外貌设计非常符合年轻人的审美。

The exterior design of this product fits the aesthetics of young people perfectly.

Compound 外貌设计.

他那出众的外貌让他无论走到哪里都是焦点。

His outstanding appearance makes him the center of attention wherever he goes.

Structure: 无论...都... (no matter...).

这种动物的外貌特征是为了适应沙漠环境。

The physical characteristics of this animal are for adapting to the desert environment.

Technical term 外貌特征.

虽然岁月改变了他的外貌，但没有改变他的心。

Although time has changed his appearance, it hasn't changed his heart.

Contrasting 外貌 with 心 (heart/mind).

他因外貌出众而被星探发掘。

He was discovered by a talent scout because of his outstanding appearance.

Passive structure using 被.

过度追求外貌的完美可能会导致心理健康问题。

Excessive pursuit of physical perfection may lead to mental health issues.

Complex subject phrase involving '过度追求'.

在面试中，得体的外貌仪表能给考官留下良好的第一印象。

In an interview, a proper appearance and demeanor can leave a good first impression on the examiners.

Using 外貌仪表 as a formal collective noun.

社会对外貌的刻板印象往往会造成不公平的竞争。

Societal stereotypes about appearance often lead to unfair competition.

Using 刻板印象 (stereotype) with 外貌.

他的文字不仅描写了人物的外貌，更揭示了其复杂的内心。

His writing not only describes the characters' appearance but also reveals their complex inner worlds.

Not only... but also (不仅...更...).

随着科技的发展，人们可以通过基因编辑来选择后代的外貌。

With the development of technology, people can choose the appearance of their offspring through gene editing.

Discussing ethical/scientific implications.

外貌歧视在职场中依然是一个不容忽视的现象。

Lookism remains a phenomenon in the workplace that cannot be ignored.

Formal phrase 不容忽视 (cannot be ignored).

建筑的外貌应当与其周围的自然环境相协调。

The exterior appearance of a building should harmonize with its surrounding natural environment.

Using 相协调 (to harmonize/coordinate).

她深知外貌只是暂时的，唯有才华才是永恒的。

She knows well that appearance is only temporary; only talent is eternal.

Literary contrast using 暂时 vs 永恒.

美学研究不仅仅关乎外貌的形式，更探讨其背后的哲学内涵。

Aesthetic research is not just about the form of appearance; it explores the philosophical connotations behind it.

Academic discussion of aesthetics.

作家通过对外貌的极简主义描写，留给读者广阔的想象空间。

Through minimalist descriptions of appearance, the author leaves the reader with vast room for imagination.

Literary analysis term 极简主义 (minimalism).

外貌的欺骗性在古典文学中常被用来探讨真理与虚幻的关系。

The deceptive nature of appearance is often used in classical literature to explore the relationship between truth and illusion.

Using 欺骗性 (deceptiveness) as a quality of 外貌.

在生物进化论中，外貌的演变往往是自然选择的结果。

In biological evolution, the evolution of appearance is often the result of natural selection.

Scientific context using 演变 (evolution).

人们往往陷入对外貌的盲目崇拜，而忽视了人格的修养。

People often fall into blind worship of appearance while neglecting the cultivation of personality.

Using 盲目崇拜 (blind worship) and 人格修养 (character cultivation).

该建筑将传统元素与现代外貌完美融合，体现了设计的匠心。

The building perfectly integrates traditional elements with a modern exterior, reflecting the ingenuity of the design.

Discussing design 匠心 (ingenuity).

外貌的社会评价体系在不同的历史阶段有着显著的差异。

The social evaluation system of appearance has significant differences in different historical stages.

Sociological analysis term 社会评价体系.

他那饱经风霜的外貌无声地诉说着他半生坎坷的经历。

His weathered appearance silently tells the story of his half-life of hardships.

Poetic use of 饱经风霜 (weathered) and 诉说 (tell/narrate).

자주 쓰는 조합

出众的外貌

平凡的外貌

描写外貌

改变外貌

注重外貌

外貌特征

外貌焦虑

外貌协会

恢复外貌

外貌歧视

자주 쓰는 구문

外貌描写

— A literary term for describing a character's physical appearance.

这篇作文的外貌描写非常生动。

外貌协会

— A humorous term for people who are only interested in attractive people.

她是外貌协会的，只和帅哥约会。

外貌管理

— The act of maintaining or improving one's physical appearance.

外貌管理也是一种职业素养。

外貌优势

— The advantages one gains from being physically attractive.

在某些行业，外貌优势确实存在。

外貌平平

— Having a very average or unremarkable appearance.

虽然他外貌平平，但性格极好。

外貌出众

— Having an exceptionally good or striking appearance.

她那外貌出众的女儿成了模特。

外貌丑陋

— Having an ugly or unpleasant appearance.

不要因为外貌丑陋而自卑。

外貌数据

— Information regarding physical appearance, often used in facial recognition.

系统收集了用户的外貌数据。

外貌评价

— An assessment or judgment of how someone looks.

过多的外貌评价会让人感到压力。

外貌变化

— Changes in physical appearance over time.

生病后，他的外貌发生了巨大的变化。

자주 혼동되는 단어

外貌 vs 外观

外观 is for objects/buildings; 外貌 is for people/animals.

外貌 vs 样子

样子 is casual and broad; 外貌 is formal and specific to physical looks.

外貌 vs 长相

长相 refers only to facial features; 外貌 includes the whole body/exterior.

관용어 및 표현

"以貌取人"

— To judge a person solely by their appearance (usually used negatively).

我们千万不能以貌取人。

Formal/Common

"郎才女貌"

— A perfect match (talented man and beautiful woman).

他们真是郎才女貌，非常般配。

Formal/Complimentary

"貌合神离"

— Seemingly in harmony but actually at odds (outwardly united but inwardly divided).

这对夫妻早已貌合神离了。

Formal/Idiomatic

"貌美如花"

— As beautiful as a flower.

新娘子貌美如花，非常迷人。

Literary

"其貌不扬"

— Unremarkable in appearance; plain-looking.

别看他其貌不扬，其实是个天才。

Formal

"才貌双全"

— Possessing both talent and beauty.

她是一个才貌双全的女子。

Formal/Complimentary

"貌若天仙"

— To look like a celestial being; stunningly beautiful.

画中的女子貌若天仙。

Literary

"人不可貌相"

— One cannot judge a person by their appearance (similar to 'don't judge a book by its cover').

人不可貌相，海水不可斗量。

Proverbial

"貌似"

— To appear to be; seemingly (often used for objects or situations).

这个问题貌似简单，其实很难。

Neutral

"改头换面"

— To change one's appearance completely (often implying a change in identity or style).

经过装修，这家店改头换面了。

Neutral/Metaphorical

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外貌 vs 外观

Both mean 'exterior'.

外观 is for inanimate objects; 外貌 is for biological entities.

房子的外观 (house's exterior) vs. 人的外貌 (person's appearance).

外貌 vs 容貌

Both refer to looks.

容貌 is more poetic and focuses on the face; 外貌 is more general and objective.

她的容貌依旧 (her facial beauty remains) vs. 他的外貌特征 (his physical traits).

外貌 vs 形象

Both involve visual perception.

形象 is the overall 'image' (reputation, dress, behavior); 外貌 is just physical traits.

维护公司形象 (protect company image) vs. 描写人物外貌 (describe character's looks).

外貌 vs 仪表

Both relate to appearance.

仪表 is professional appearance and bearing; 外貌 is just the physical look.

仪表大方 (elegant bearing) vs. 外貌普通 (ordinary looks).

外貌 vs 皮囊

Both refer to the body's exterior.

皮囊 is a cynical/philosophical term ('skin bag'); 外貌 is a neutral descriptive term.

臭皮囊 (stinking skin bag) vs. 漂亮的外貌 (beautiful appearance).

문장 패턴

S + 的外貌 + 很 + Adj

她的外貌很美。

介绍/描写 + 外貌

请描写他的外貌。

外貌 + 发生了 + 变化

他的外貌发生了很大变化。

根据 + 外貌 + 评判

不要根据外貌评判人。

外貌 + 焦虑/歧视

外貌焦虑影响了很多年轻人。

外貌 + 与 + 内在 + 的平衡

探讨外貌与内在的平衡。

注重 + 外貌 + 管理

他非常注重外貌管理。

外貌 + 的欺骗性

我们应该警惕外貌的欺骗性。

어휘 가족

명사

容貌

貌样

外观

外表

동사

貌似

描摹

형용사

貌美

其貌不扬

사용법

frequency

High, especially in discussions about social standards and identity.

자주 하는 실수

Using 外貌 for a building. → 使用‘外观’。
外貌 is primarily for living beings; 外观 is for objects and architecture.
他很外貌。 → 他很注重外貌。
外貌 is a noun and cannot be modified by '很' like an adjective.
他的外貌像他的妈妈。 → 他长得像他的妈妈。
While 'his appearance is like his mom's' is okay, '长得像' is the standard way to express resemblance.
看外貌要下雨了。 → 看样子要下雨了。
外貌 only refers to physical looks; 样子 is used for likelihood or state.
他的外貌很美。 → 她长得很漂亮。
Saying 'his appearance is beautiful' sounds clinical; use specific verbs for compliments.

팁

Noun Usage

Always treat 外貌 as a noun. You can't say 'he is very appearance'; say 'he values appearance' (他很注重外貌).

Literary Descriptions

In stories, use '外貌描写' to set the scene. It helps categorize the physical details of your characters.

Sensitivity

When discussing others, using 外貌 sounds more objective and less judgmental than using 颜值.

Synonym Choice

Use 外观 for products and 外貌 for people to show you know the subtle differences in Chinese.

Character Breakdown

Remember: 外 (Outside) + 貌 (Look/Face) = Outside Look.

Modern Slang

Learn '外貌协会' to understand jokes about dating and social standards in China.

Essay Structure

If writing an essay on beauty, start by defining '外貌' vs '内在' (inner self).

News Context

When you hear '外貌特征' on the news, pay attention—they are giving a physical description.

HSK/CEFR Prep

This is a key B2 word. Be prepared to see it in reading passages about sociology or biology.

Traditional Wisdom

Remember the idiom '以貌取人' to discuss the ethics of appearance in Chinese culture.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Wài' as the 'Way' someone looks on the 'Outside' (Wài), and 'Mào' as the 'Mask' (Mào) they wear. Together, they form the 'Outside Mask'—their appearance.

시각적 연상

Imagine a person standing outside (外) a house, looking into a mirror (貌) to check their hair.

Word Web

Facial features Body shape Clothing Skin tone Height Style Aesthetics Visuals

챌린지

Try to describe the '外貌' of three different people you saw today using at least two adjectives for each.

어원

The word is a compound of '外' (outside) and '貌' (appearance/face). '外' dates back to oracle bone script, depicting a moon and a divination crack, suggesting something outside the house at night. '貌' originally depicted a person or a ritual mask.

원래 의미: The external look or facial appearance of a person.

Sino-Tibetan

문화적 맥락

Be careful when discussing someone's '外貌' directly in China; while it's more common to comment on weight or skin than in the West, it can still be a sensitive topic.

In English, 'looks' is more common in casual speech, while 'appearance' is formal. '外貌' aligns closely with 'appearance.'

The classic novel 'Dream of the Red Chamber' (红楼梦) contains extensive '外貌描写' for its characters. The movie 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' is often used in Chinese schools to discuss the theme of '外貌' vs. '内心'. The term '外貌协会' is a staple of modern Chinese romantic comedies.

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실제 사용 상황

Literature

外貌描写
其貌不扬
貌若天仙
详细刻画

Police/Forensics

外貌特征
还原外貌
目击者描述
面部识别

Social Media

外貌焦虑
外貌协会
颜值高
外貌升级

Psychology

外貌自尊
第一印象
外貌偏见
自我认知

Product Design

外貌设计
外观精美
工业设计
视觉效果

대화 시작하기

"你觉得在找工作时，外貌重要吗？"

"你属于‘外貌协会’吗？为什么？"

"你认为一个人的外貌能反映他的性格吗？"

"现在的社交媒体是不是加剧了人们的外貌焦虑？"

"如果你可以改变自己的外貌，你想改变哪里？"

일기 주제

写一写你对‘内在美’和‘外貌美’的看法。

描述一个你印象深刻的人的外貌，并解释为什么。

反思一下你是否曾经‘以貌取人’，那次经历教会了你什么？

讨论一下现代社会美容整形行业对外貌观念的影响。

想象一下，如果人类不再看重外貌，世界会变成什么样？

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

It is better to use 外观 (wàiguān) for a car. Using 外貌 sounds like you are personifying the car, which is rare unless you're writing a poem.

长相 (zhǎngxiàng) is informal and focuses almost entirely on the face. 外貌 (wàimào) is more formal and includes the whole physical presence, like height and build.

It can be, but it's often used humorously or as a self-deprecating joke. It means someone only cares about good looks.

The term is 外貌焦虑 (wàimào jiāolǜ). It is a very common topic of discussion in modern China.

No, it is strictly a noun. You must use verbs like 描写 (describe) or 改变 (change) with it.

Yes, it is the closest formal equivalent to the English word 'looks' or 'appearance'.

It is a four-character idiom meaning 'to judge people by their appearance.' It is almost always used to advise against doing so.

Yes, you can use it to describe the physical appearance of animals in a scientific or descriptive way.

While understandable, it's more natural to say '他长得很帅' or '他的外貌出众'.

It is a formal to neutral word. In very casual speech, people might prefer 颜值 or 长相.

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