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B1 adjective 11 min read

显明

xianming

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 显明 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 显明 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't really need to use the word '显明' (xiǎnmíng). It is a bit too formal for beginners. Instead, you would use the word '明' (míng) which means 'bright' or 'clear.' For example, you might say '明天' (míngtiān) for 'tomorrow' or '明白' (míngbai) for 'to understand.' If you want to say something is easy to see, you would use '看得见' (kàn de jiàn). Imagine you are looking at a big, bright sun in the sky. That is '明.' The word '显明' is like taking that brightness and using it to describe a deep truth. As an A1 learner, just remember that '明' is about light and clarity. You might see '显明' in very simple picture books where it describes a very bright color, but even then, it is rare. Focus on '明白' first! If you understand a teacher, you say '我明白了.' This is the foundation for '显明.' Both words share the character '明,' which shows the sun and the moon together, representing the ultimate source of light and clarity in the world. So, when you see '显明' later in your studies, just think: 'Ah, this is a very high-level way of saying something is as clear as the sun and the moon!'

For A2 learners, you are starting to use more adjectives to describe the world. While '显明' (xiǎnmíng) is still quite formal, you can begin to understand it by comparing it to '明显' (míngxiǎn). You already know '明显' means 'obvious.' For example, '他的进步很明显' (His progress is very obvious). '显明' is like a more serious version of this. You might hear it in a story or a formal speech. If a king in a fairy tale has a '显明' character, it means his personality is very easy for everyone to see. At this level, you should focus on the '显' part of the word. '显' means to show. So '显明' is 'to show clearly.' You can use it when you want to be a bit more poetic. For example, '花儿显明了春天的到来' (The flowers manifest the arrival of spring). It sounds much more beautiful than just saying 'Spring is here.' It’s about one thing showing another thing. Think of it as a bridge between simple descriptions and more complex ideas. You don't need to use it in daily life yet, but when you see it in a reading passage, just think: 'This thing is being shown very clearly.'

At the B1 level, '显明' (xiǎnmíng) becomes a very useful word for your writing. You are now expected to discuss more abstract topics like society, work, and personal feelings. This is where '显明' shines. Instead of always using '明显' (míngxiǎn), which can sound a bit repetitive and childish, you can use '显明' to describe evidence, traits, or results. For example, if you are writing an essay about the environment, you could say '污染的影响已经非常显明了' (The effects of pollution have already become very evident). This sounds much more professional. You should also learn to use it as a verb. '他的行为显明了他的诚实' (His actions manifested his honesty). This structure (A 显明 B) is a great way to show cause and effect in a sophisticated way. You are moving from 'I see this' to 'This action reveals that quality.' Pay attention to how it is used in news articles or formal letters. It often appears when someone is making a point that they feel is undeniable. If you use '显明' in your B1 speaking or writing exams, it shows you have a good grasp of formal Chinese vocabulary and can distinguish between casual and formal registers.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the nuances of '显明' (xiǎnmíng) compared to its synonyms like '显著' (xiǎnzhù) and '鲜明' (xiānmíng). You need to know that '显著' is specifically for remarkable results or changes (like '显著的成效'), while '显明' is for clarity and manifestation of truths or characteristics. You should also be able to use '显明' in more complex sentence structures. For instance, '在对比之下，两者的优劣愈发显明' (Under comparison, the pros and cons of the two became increasingly evident). The use of '愈发' (increasingly) with '显明' is a classic high-level pairing. You will also encounter '显明' in literary analysis. When discussing a novel, you might say the author '显明' a certain social problem through the protagonist's tragic life. At this level, you should also be aware of the word's presence in philosophical or religious contexts, where it refers to the revelation of hidden truths. Using '显明' correctly at B2 shows that you understand the 'weight' of Chinese words—that some words are for the street and some are for the soul or the intellect. Practice replacing '明显' with '显明' in your formal essays and see how it changes the tone of your writing to be more authoritative and reflective.

As a C1 learner, you should treat '显明' (xiǎnmíng) as a tool for precision. You are now dealing with professional, academic, and legal Chinese. In these fields, '显明' is often used to describe evidence that is 'manifest' or 'patent.' For example, in a legal context, a '显明' violation of a contract is one that requires no deep interpretation—it is clear on its face. You should also be able to use the word in the context of 'manifesting' abstract concepts in art or philosophy. For instance, '这部作品显明了存在主义的核心思想' (This work manifests the core ideas of existentialism). You should be sensitive to the formal rhythm of the word. It often appears in balanced sentences or as part of a formal argument. You might also encounter it in historical texts or classical-style modern prose. At C1, you should also be able to distinguish '显明' from '昭然' (zhāorán), where the latter often carries a negative connotation of being 'glaringly obvious' (as in a crime). Your goal is to use '显明' to provide a sense of objective clarity. It is not just your opinion that something is clear; it is '显明'—it has been made manifest by the facts themselves. This level of vocabulary control is essential for high-level translation and professional communication in Chinese.

At the C2 level, you are exploring the deepest stylistic and historical layers of '显明' (xiǎnmíng). You understand that the word carries echoes of classical Chinese, where '显' and '明' were used to describe the virtue of a ruler or the clarity of the heavens. In your own writing, you might use '显明' to achieve a specific rhetorical effect, perhaps to evoke a sense of timeless truth or to provide a definitive conclusion to a complex philosophical argument. You are aware of its use in the 'Union Version' of the Chinese Bible and other foundational religious translations, where it serves as the standard term for 'revelation' or 'manifestation' of the divine. This gives the word a certain 'sacred' or 'ultimate' quality in certain contexts. You can also play with the word in creative writing, using it to describe the way light interacts with shadows to '显明' the hidden contours of a landscape or a human face. At this level, you don't just 'use' the word; you 'wield' it. You know exactly when to choose '显明' over '明显,' '显著,' '昭彰,' or '清晰' to hit the perfect note of formality, authority, and clarity. You might even use it in its rarer verbal forms or in archaic-sounding constructions to add flavor to your prose. Your mastery of '显明' reflects a total integration of the language's formal, literary, and intellectual traditions.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

显明 in 30 Seconds

显明 (xiǎnmíng) is a formal word meaning 'clear' or 'manifest.'
It is used for abstract truths, traits, and evidence.
It can act as both an adjective and a verb.
It is more literary and formal than the common word '明显'.

The Chinese term 显明 (xiǎnmíng) is a sophisticated adjective and verb-adjacent descriptor that translates most closely to 'clear,' 'obvious,' 'evident,' or 'manifest.' While a beginner might instinctively reach for the more common word 明显 (míngxiǎn), the term 显明 carries a slightly more formal, literary, or even philosophical weight. It suggests that a quality or truth which might have been hidden or subtle has now been brought into the light for all to see. The character 显 (xiǎn) means to show, to display, or to be prominent, while 明 (míng) represents brightness or clarity. Together, they create a sense of 'brightly displayed' or 'clearly manifested.'

Formal Contexts: In academic writing or legal documents, 显明 is used to describe evidence or differences that are undeniable. It isn't just about visual clarity; it's about the logical or spiritual clarity of a situation.

事实的真相已经非常显明了。 (The truth of the facts has already become very evident.)

You will encounter this word frequently in literature when an author wants to highlight a character's traits or the contrast between two opposing forces. For example, the '显明' contrast between wealth and poverty, or the '显明' change in someone's attitude after a significant event. It implies a process of becoming clear—something that was perhaps latent is now unmistakable. Unlike '明显', which is used for anything easily seen (like a '明显' mistake on a test), '显明' often deals with intrinsic qualities, virtues, or complex states of being.

Usage in Philosophy and Religion: In religious or philosophical texts, 显明 is often used to describe the manifestation of divine will or the uncovering of deep, universal truths. It suggests a revelation.

他的英勇行为显明了他的高尚品德。 (His heroic actions manifested his noble character.)

When using this word, consider the scale of what you are describing. If you are describing a bright red dot on a white wall, use 明显. If you are describing how a person's long-term dedication has finally made their expertise 'evident' to the industry, 显明 is the more elegant and precise choice. It resonates with the idea that the internal has become external. In modern Mandarin, it is less common in casual street slang but remains a staple of high-level communication, news broadcasting, and literary analysis. It bridges the gap between the physical world of sight and the intellectual world of understanding.

Comparative Nuance: While 明显 emphasizes the 'result' of being easy to see, 显明 emphasizes the 'nature' or 'state' of being clear and revealed.

新旧制度的优劣对比十分显明。 (The contrast between the pros and cons of the old and new systems is very clear.)

这种趋势在近年来变得愈发显明。 (This trend has become increasingly evident in recent years.)

Using 显明 (xiǎnmíng) correctly involves understanding its role as a predicate adjective or an attributive modifier. It often follows intensifiers like 非常 (fēicháng), 十分 (shífēn), or 愈发 (yùfā). Because it is a formal word, it pairs well with formal subjects such as 道理 (dàolǐ - reason/truth), 证据 (zhèngjù - evidence), and 特征 (tèzhēng - characteristics).

Pattern: Subject + (Degree Adverb) + 显明: This is the most common structure. It asserts that the subject possesses the quality of being manifest or clear. For example: '他的态度十分显明' (His attitude is very clear/evident).

这两者之间的差别是非常显明的。 (The difference between these two is very evident.)

Another powerful way to use 显明 is as a verb meaning 'to make clear' or 'to reveal.' In this usage, it often takes an object or is part of a causative structure. This is particularly common in philosophical or religious contexts, where one thing 'manifests' another. For instance, '这幅画显明了画家的内心世界' (This painting manifests the painter's inner world). Here, the painting is the agent that brings the hidden inner world into clarity.

Pattern: A + 显明了 + B: A reveals or makes B evident. '实验结果显明了这一理论的正确性' (The experimental results manifested the correctness of this theory).

阳光让山脉的轮廓变得格外显明。 (The sunlight made the mountain's silhouette exceptionally clear.)

When modifying a noun directly, you use 显明的. This is used to describe a noun that is inherently clear or obvious. For example, '显明的例子' (a clear example) or '显明的优势' (an evident advantage). Note that while '明显的例子' is also correct and more common in daily speech, '显明的' adds a layer of formal emphasis, suggesting the example is not just easy to see but serves as a definitive manifestation of a point.

他用行动显明了自己的忠诚。 (He manifested his loyalty through his actions.)

In complex sentences, 显明 can be used to set up a contrast. You might describe one thing as 模糊 (móhu - blurry) while the other is 显明. This creates a strong rhetorical effect. '在黑暗中，那一点微光显得格外显明' (In the darkness, that tiny glimmer appeared exceptionally manifest). This usage highlights the contrast between the background and the object of focus.

The 'De' (的/地) Distinction: Use '显明地' when you want to describe how an action is performed, though this is rarer than the adjectival form. For example, '显明地表现出来' (to manifest clearly).

证据之显明，令人无法反驳。 (The evidence is so manifest that it is irrefutable.)

Finally, remember that 显明 is rarely used for simple physical visibility like 'The car is clear.' For physical objects, we prefer 清晰 (qīngxī) or 明显. Use 显明 for truths, characteristics, differences, and results—things that the mind perceives through the eyes.

If you are walking down a busy street in Beijing or Shanghai, you might not hear a teenager use 显明 (xiǎnmíng) to describe their new shoes. However, if you turn on the evening news, listen to a university lecture, or attend a formal business presentation, the word will suddenly appear everywhere. It is a 'prestige' word that signals clarity of thought and formal education. In news broadcasts, anchors use it to describe the '显明' effects of a new government policy or the '显明' contrast in international relations.

In the Newsroom: '这项政策的效果已经初步显明' (The effects of this policy have already begun to manifest). Here, it suggests that the data is starting to show a clear trend.

专家指出，气候变化的迹象已十分显明。 (Experts point out that the signs of climate change are already very evident.)

In the world of literature and film criticism, 显明 is indispensable. Critics use it to talk about themes. A movie might '显明' the dark side of human nature, or a character's growth might be '显明' through their changing dialogue. It's a word that looks for the 'why' behind the 'what.' When a critic says a theme is '显明,' they are saying the director has successfully brought an abstract idea into a concrete, visible form.

他的眼神中显明出一种坚定的信念。 (His eyes manifested a firm conviction.)

Legal and academic settings are perhaps the most common places for 显明. In a courtroom, a lawyer might argue that the evidence is 显明 to prove the defendant's innocence. In a scientific paper, a researcher might state that the correlation between two variables is 显明. It carries a sense of authority—it’s not just an opinion that something is clear; it is a statement of objective fact. If you use this word in a Chinese proficiency exam (like the HSK), it shows the examiners that you have moved beyond basic vocabulary into the realm of formal, precise language.

Religious and Spiritual Contexts: In Chinese translations of the Bible or Buddhist sutras, 显明 is used for divine revelation. For example, '显明上帝的荣耀' (to manifest the glory of God).

大自然的美丽显明了生命的奥秘。 (The beauty of nature manifests the mystery of life.)

Finally, you will see it in high-end advertising. A luxury skincare brand might claim that their product will make your skin's '显明' improvement visible in seven days. Here, the word is used to add a sense of scientific validity and prestige to the claim. It sounds more impressive than just saying the skin will look 'better.' It implies a profound, visible transformation.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 显明 (xiǎnmíng) is overusing it in casual conversation. Because it is a formal word, using it with friends while discussing what to eat for lunch will sound quite strange. For instance, saying '我想吃火锅的意图很显明' (My intention to eat hotpot is very manifest) is grammatically correct but socially awkward. In this case, 明显 (míngxiǎn) is the appropriate choice.

Mistake #1: Confusing 显明 with 明显: 明显 is for anything easy to see. 显明 is for truths or qualities that have been revealed or are inherently clear in a formal sense.

Incorrect: 你的衣服上有个显明的污点。 (There is a 'manifest' stain on your clothes.)
Correct: 你的衣服上有个明显的污点。

Another common error is using 显明 when you actually mean 说明 (shuōmíng - to explain/illustrate). While both involve making something clear, 说明 is an active process of explaining with words or diagrams, whereas 显明 is about the state of being clear or the act of a quality revealing itself. You '说明' a problem to a student, but the student's progress '显明' their hard work. Confusing these two can lead to sentences that sound like you are trying to 'manifest' an explanation rather than just giving one.

Mistake: 请显明一下这个规则。 (Please manifest this rule.)
Better: 请说明一下这个规则。 (Please explain this rule.)

Some learners also struggle with the placement of 显明 as a verb versus an adjective. As a verb, it needs an object ('显明真理'). As an adjective, it usually needs a '的' when modifying a noun ('显明的特征'). A common mistake is omitting the '的' in formal writing, which can make the sentence feel incomplete or overly clipped. Furthermore, don't confuse 显明 with 显现 (xiǎnxiàn - to appear/show up). 显现 is about physical appearance (like a ghost appearing), while 显明 is about clarity and manifestation of qualities.

Mistake #2: Using 显明 for Physical Appearance: If a mountain peak 'appears' through the clouds, use 显现. If the 'majesty' of the mountain is 'clear' to the viewer, use 显明.

海面上显现出一艘船。 (A ship appeared on the sea - Correct)
海面上显明出一艘船。 (Incorrect context)

Lastly, be careful with degree adverbs. While 非常显明 is fine, 很显明 can sometimes feel a bit weak for such a strong word. In formal writing, you will often see 昭然若揭 (zhāorán ruò jiē) for things that are negatively obvious, or 显而易见 (xiǎn ér yì jiàn) for things that are self-evident. Using 显明 correctly requires a sense of 'gravitas'—save it for when you really want to emphasize that a truth has been brought to light.

Understanding the family of words related to 显明 (xiǎnmíng) will greatly enhance your Chinese expression. The most direct competitor is 明显 (míngxiǎn). The difference is largely one of register and nuance: 明显 is 'obvious' (common, everyday), while 显明 is 'manifest' (formal, revealing). If you see a typo, it is 明显. If a leader's wisdom is revealed through a crisis, it is 显明.

显明 vs. 明显: 明显 is a basic descriptor for anything easily perceived. 显明 is more literary and often implies that a quality has been made evident through some means.

这个错误很明显。 (This mistake is obvious.) vs. 他的天才在作品中显明无遗。 (His genius is fully manifest in his works.)

Another close relative is 显著 (xiǎnzhù). This word translates to 'notable' or 'remarkable.' It is almost always used for changes, improvements, or effects. You would say '显著的进步' (notable progress) or '显著的成效' (remarkable results). While 显明 focuses on clarity and manifestation, 显著 focuses on the degree or scale of the thing being observed. If a change is so big that everyone notices, it is 显著.

显明 vs. 显著: 显著 is used for results and data that stand out significantly. 显明 is used for truths or traits that are clearly shown.

经济增长非常显著。 (Economic growth is very notable.)

For a more formal, four-character idiom (Chengyu) alternative, consider 显而易见 (xiǎn ér yì jiàn). This literally means 'clear and easy to see.' It is used for logical conclusions that are self-evident. If you are making an argument and the conclusion is 'obvious,' using 显而易见 makes you sound very persuasive. On the other hand, if you want to describe something that is blatantly obvious (often with a negative connotation, like a lie), you might use 昭然若揭 (zhāorán ruò jiē).

Lastly, 鲜明 (xiānmíng) is often confused with 显明 because they sound similar. However, 鲜明 (with the 'fresh' character) is used for colors (bright, vivid) or positions/stands that are very distinct and sharp. You might have a '鲜明' contrast of colors or a '鲜明' political stance. 显明 is about being manifest/evident, while 鲜明 is about being vivid and sharply defined.

显明 vs. 鲜明: 鲜明 (xiānmíng) = Vivid, sharp, distinct (colors, contrasts). 显明 (xiǎnmíng) = Manifest, evident, clear (truths, traits).

色彩鲜明 (vivid colors) vs. 证据显明 (evident evidence).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient texts, '显明' was often used to describe the 'bright virtue' (明德) of an emperor that was visible to all his subjects. It wasn't just about 'seeing' but about 'moral radiance.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʃjɛn miŋ/

US /ʃjɛn miŋ/

The stress is balanced between both syllables, though the rising tone on 'míng' often gives it a slightly more prominent ending.

Rhymes With

典型 (diǎnxíng) 心情 (xīnqíng) 眼睛 (yǎnjing) 明星 (míngxīng) 情形 (qíngxing) 坚定 (jiāndìng) 水平 (shuǐpíng) 命令 (mìnglìng)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'xiǎn' as 'shian' (one syllable) instead of 'shee-en'.
Mixing up the tones: pronouncing it as 'xiān míng' (first-second) which sounds like 'fresh-clear'.
Muffling the 'ng' sound at the end of 'míng'.
Failing to dip low enough on the third tone 'xiǎn'.
Confusing the 'x' sound with 'sh'; 'x' is produced with the tongue behind the lower teeth.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires understanding of formal characters and literary context.

Writing 5/5

Difficult to use correctly without sounding overly formal or using it in the wrong context.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but hard to find the right natural context in speech.

Listening 4/5

Often heard in news or lectures; requires distinguishing from '明显'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

明显清楚显示明白光明

Learn Next

显著昭然若揭显而易见体现阐明

Advanced

彰显揭示呈现宣示

Grammar to Know

Adjective as Predicate

他的进步非常显明。

Attributive 'de' (的)

显明的证据。

Verb-Object Structure

显明真理。

Causative Structure

这显明了他的决心。

Comparison with '愈发'

随着时间推移，差异愈发显明。

Examples by Level

月亮很明。

The moon is very bright.

A1 uses the base character '明' (bright).

我不明白。

I don't understand.

A1 uses '明白' for clarity of mind.

灯光很明亮。

The light is very bright.

Adjective '明亮' is common at A1.

天亮了，很明。

It's dawn, it's very bright.

Using '明' for natural light.

你的眼睛很明。

Your eyes are very clear/bright.

Descriptive '明'.

他说明天见。

He said see you tomorrow.

'明天' contains '明'.

这个字很清楚。

This character is very clear.

'清楚' is the A1 word for clear.

我看得很明。

I see very clearly.

Resultative use.

这个变化很明显。

This change is very obvious.

A2 uses '明显' (obvious).

他的进步很明显。

His progress is very obvious.

Common A2 adjective.

这里的差别很明显。

The difference here is very obvious.

Comparing things.

他显明了他的不开心。

He showed his unhappiness clearly.

Simple use of '显明' as 'to show'.

阳光显明了路标。

Sunlight made the road sign clear.

Subject-Verb-Object.

他的态度很显明。

His attitude is very clear.

Describing a state.

这幅画的颜色很显明。

The colors of this painting are very clear.

Describing visual clarity.

事实已经显明了。

The facts have already become clear.

Perfective '了'.

证据已经非常显明了。

The evidence is already very evident.

Formal adjective usage.

他的成功显明了努力的重要性。

His success manifested the importance of hard work.

Using '显明' to show an abstract truth.

这种趋势在最近变得很显明。

This trend has become very evident recently.

Describing social trends.

两人的性格差异十分显明。

The personality difference between the two is very manifest.

Describing abstract differences.

这篇文章显明了作者的观点。

This article manifested the author's viewpoint.

Subject-Verb-Object.

他的眼神显明了他的决心。

His eyes manifested his determination.

Describing inner qualities.

实验结果显明了药物的有效性。

The experimental results manifested the drug's effectiveness.

Academic context.

这些例子显明了规则的用法。

These examples manifest the usage of the rule.

Educational context.

新旧制度的优劣对比十分显明。

The contrast between the pros and cons of the old and new systems is very evident.

Using '对比' (contrast) with '显明'.

他的言行显明了他对事业的忠诚。

His words and actions manifested his loyalty to his career.

Compound subject '言行'.

这种文化影响在当地生活细节中显明无遗。

This cultural influence is fully manifest in the details of local life.

Idiomatic '显明无遗' (fully manifest).

阳光让山脉的轮廓变得格外显明。

The sunlight made the mountain's silhouette exceptionally clear.

Using '变得' (become) + '格外' (exceptionally).

他的英勇行为显明了他的高尚品德。

His heroic actions manifested his noble character.

Abstract nouns like '品德'.

作者在书中显明了对未来的担忧。

The author manifested their concerns for the future in the book.

Complex verb usage.

证据之显明，令人无法反驳。

The evidence is so manifest that it is irrefutable.

Formal '之' structure.

这种差别在不同年龄段中愈发显明。

This difference becomes increasingly evident among different age groups.

Using '愈发' (increasingly).

该判决显明了法律对于公正的捍卫。

The judgment manifested the law's defense of justice.

Legal/Institutional context.

这部纪录片显明了贫富差距的严峻现实。

This documentary manifested the harsh reality of the wealth gap.

Socio-political analysis.

他的沉默反而显明了他的不安。

His silence, on the contrary, manifested his unease.

Paradoxical '反而' usage.

这一发现显明了人类进化的新路径。

This discovery manifested a new path of human evolution.

Scientific breakthrough context.

其目的之显明，简直是不打自招。

The purpose is so manifest that it's practically a self-confession.

Idiomatic '不打自招'.

大自然的美丽显明了生命的奥秘。

The beauty of nature manifests the mystery of life.

Philosophical/Aesthetic context.

这种逻辑上的漏洞在仔细审查下显明出来。

This logical loophole became manifest under careful scrutiny.

Abstract logic context.

他的作品显明了一种独特的艺术风格。

His work manifested a unique artistic style.

Artistic critique.

圣经中显明了上帝对世人的慈爱。

The Bible manifests God's love for the people of the world.

Religious/Theological context.

历史的进程显明了必然的规律。

The course of history manifests inevitable laws.

Historical determinism context.

此举显明了其政治抱负的宏大。

This move manifested the grandiosity of his political ambitions.

Formal '此举' and '其' usage.

万物之理，皆显明于自然之中。

The principles of all things are all manifest within nature.

Classical/Philosophical syntax.

他的牺牲显明了人性的光辉。

His sacrifice manifested the brilliance of humanity.

High-level moral discourse.

这种深层的矛盾在危机时刻被彻底显明。

This deep-seated contradiction was thoroughly manifested in the moment of crisis.

Passive voice '被' + '彻底'.

诗人通过隐喻显明了内心的忧伤。

The poet manifested their inner sorrow through metaphors.

Literary theory context.

真理终将显明，无需过分辩解。

Truth will eventually manifest; there is no need for excessive defense.

Future '终将' + '显明'.

Common Collocations

显明的特征

十分显明

愈发显明

显明真理

证据显明

显明无遗

显明的对比

逐渐显明

显明立场

效果显明

Common Phrases

显而易见

— Obvious and easy to see. Used for logical conclusions.

显而易见，他撒谎了。

黑白显明

— Clear as black and white. Used for moral or logical clarity.

是非黑白显明。

迹象显明

— Signs are evident. Used when something is starting to show.

成功的迹象已经显明。

差异显明

— Differences are clear. Used in comparisons.

两者的差异十分显明。

显明事实

— Evident facts. Used in debates or reports.

这些是显明的事实。

显明道理

— Clear reasoning. Used in teaching or arguments.

他用显明的道理说服了大家。

显明身份

— To reveal one's identity. Used in stories or formal contexts.

他终于显明了自己的身份。

显明志向

— To make one's ambitions clear. Used in biographies.

他从小就显明了大志。

显明优劣

— To show pros and cons clearly. Used in evaluations.

比赛显明了双方的优劣。

显明其意

— To make its meaning clear. Used in literary analysis.

作者通过此举显明其意。

Often Confused With

显明 vs 明显

明显 is for general obviousness; 显明 is more formal and implies revelation.

显明 vs 鲜明

鲜明 is for vivid colors or sharp contrasts; 显明 is for clarity of truth/traits.

显明 vs 显著

显著 is for remarkable results or changes; 显明 is for manifest qualities.

Idioms & Expressions

"显明无遗"

— To be revealed completely without anything left hidden.

他的缺点在这次事件中显明无遗。

Literary

"显而易见"

— So clear that it is easy to see or understand.

这个道理显而易见。

Common

"昭然若揭"

— As clear as if uncovered; usually used for bad intentions.

他的阴谋已经昭然若揭。

Formal/Negative

"一目了然"

— Clear at a glance.

表格的内容一目了然。

Neutral

"洞若观火"

— To see things as clearly as looking at a fire.

他对局势的洞察洞若观火。

Very Formal

"是非分明"

— To clearly distinguish between right and wrong.

他是一个是非分明的人。

Commendatory

"开宗明义"

— To make the purpose clear from the very beginning.

文章开宗明义地提出了主题。

Formal

"旗帜鲜明"

— To take a clear-cut and sharp stand.

我们必须旗帜鲜明地反对浪费。

Political

"显赫一时"

— To be very famous and powerful for a time (shares '显').

他曾是显赫一时的人物。

Neutral

"明察秋毫"

— To see the smallest detail (shares '明').

领导者应该明察秋毫。

Commendatory

Easily Confused

显明 vs 鲜明 (xiānmíng)

They sound almost identical.

鲜明 (1st tone) means vivid/sharp (colors/stands). 显明 (3rd tone) means manifest/evident.

色彩鲜明 (vivid colors) vs 事实显明 (evident facts).

显明 vs 说明 (shuōmíng)

Both involve making things clear.

说明 is to explain (action). 显明 is to manifest or the state of being clear.

请说明理由 (Explain reasons) vs 理由很显明 (Reasons are manifest).

显明 vs 显示 (xiǎnshì)

Both use the character '显'.

显示 is to display or show (like a screen). 显明 is more about the intrinsic clarity of a truth.

屏幕显示 (Screen display) vs 显明正义 (Manifest justice).

显明 vs 显现 (xiǎnxiàn)

Both involve appearing.

显现 is for physical appearance (like a ghost). 显明 is for abstract clarity.

月亮显现 (Moon appears) vs 显明性格 (Manifest character).

显明 vs 清晰 (qīngxī)

Both mean 'clear'.

清晰 is for visual/audio clarity. 显明 is for logical/truth clarity.

声音清晰 (Clear voice) vs 显明的优势 (Manifest advantage).

Sentence Patterns

A 显明了 B

这个实验显明了水的成分。

Subject + 非常显明

两者的差别非常显明。

显明的 + Noun

这是一个显明的例子。

愈发 + 显明

矛盾变得愈发显明。

Noun + 之显明

证据之显明，令人惊讶。

逐渐 + 显明出来

真相逐渐显明出来。

显明无遗

其意图显明无遗。

显明于...

真理显明于万物之中。

Word Family

Nouns

显现 (appearance)

明显 (obviousness - abstract)

明理 (reasoning)

Verbs

显露 (to reveal)

显示 (to display)

显现 (to appear)

表明 (to make clear/indicate)

Adjectives

明显 (obvious)

显著 (notable)

显赫 (illustrious)

明亮 (bright)

显眼

显现

显影

文明

光明

How to Use It

frequency

Common in written Chinese, rare in casual spoken Chinese.

Common Mistakes

Using 显明 for a physical stain on a shirt. → 使用 '明显'。
显明 is for abstract qualities or formal evidence, not physical dirt.
Pronouncing it 'xiān míng' (1st tone). → xiǎn míng (3rd tone).
xiānmíng means '鲜明' (vivid), which is a different word.
Saying '请显明这个词' to mean 'explain this word'. → 请 '说明' 这个词。
显明 is 'to manifest', while 说明 is 'to explain'.
Using 显明 for the bright light of a lamp. → 使用 '明亮'。
显明 is about clarity of truth, not the intensity of physical light.
Omitting '的' in '显明例子' in formal writing. → 显明的例子。
In formal writing, the 'de' particle is usually required for multi-syllable adjectives modifying nouns.

Tips

Pair with Abstract Nouns

Always pair '显明' with abstract nouns like 'truth,' 'difference,' or 'character' to sound natural.

Master the 3rd Tone

Ensure 'xiǎn' is a full falling-rising tone to distinguish it from the 1st tone 'xiān' (as in 鲜明).

Use in Essays

Use '显明' in the conclusion of your essays to state that your point has been made manifest.

Verb Usage

When using it as a verb, remember that 'A 显明了 B' usually means A is the evidence and B is the truth.

显明 vs 明显

If you can see it with your eyes, use 明显. If you see it with your mind, consider 显明.

Work Context

In a job interview, say '我的经验显明了我的能力' to sound professional.

Idiomatic Power

Use '显明无遗' to add a literary flourish to your descriptions.

Spotting the Word

When reading, look for '显明' in the topic sentences of formal articles.

News Keywords

News anchors often use '显明' when summarizing the results of a meeting or policy.

Etymology Link

Remember the sun and moon in '明' to associate the word with light and clarity.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine the SUN and MOON (明) shining on a piece of SILK (显). Everything is perfectly 'manifest' and 'clear.'

Visual Association

A bright spotlight hitting a dark stage, suddenly revealing a hidden object. That moment of revelation is '显明'.

Word Web

显 (Show) 明 (Bright) 明显 (Obvious) 显露 (Reveal) 明白 (Understand) 光明 (Light) 显示 (Display) 显赫 (Grand)

Challenge

Try to use '显明' in a sentence about a secret that was finally revealed. Make sure it sounds formal!

Word Origin

The word '显明' is composed of two characters that date back to ancient Chinese scripts. '显' (xiǎn) originally depicted silk being held up to the light of the sun, symbolizing something being made visible or prominent. '明' (míng) is the combination of the sun (日) and the moon (月), representing the ultimate source of light and clarity.

Original meaning: To be brightly visible or to make something clear through light.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

No major sensitivities, but avoid using it for trivial physical things like 'dirty dishes'—it sounds too grand.

English speakers might find 'manifest' too formal for daily use, but 'evident' or 'clear' are good parallels. '显明' is closer to 'manifest' in its 'revealing' sense.

The Chinese Bible uses '显明' for 'to manifest' (e.g., Romans 1:19). Classical Chinese literature often uses it to describe the 'Mandate of Heaven' being made clear. Modern political speeches use it to describe '显明' contrasts in development.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic Writing

研究显明
数据显明
显明的趋势
结果显明

Legal Proceedings

证据显明
事实显明
显明的违约
意图显明

Literary Criticism

主题显明
情感显明
显明的对比
笔触显明

Religious Texts

显明神迹
显明真理
旨意显明
显明荣耀

Business Strategy

优势显明
成效显明
目标显明
立场显明

Conversation Starters

"你觉得这个政策的效果显明吗？ (Do you think the effects of this policy are evident?)"

"两本书的风格对比非常显明，你更喜欢哪一本？ (The contrast between the two books' styles is very manifest; which do you prefer?)"

"最近这种社会趋势已经非常显明了，你注意到了吗？ (This social trend has become very evident lately; have you noticed?)"

"证据已经显明他是无辜的，你还不相信吗？ (The evidence has manifested that he is innocent; do you still not believe?)"

"他的才华在他的第一部作品中就显明出来了。 (His talent was already manifest in his first work.)"

Journal Prompts

写一段话描述你最近生活中的一个显明的变化。 (Write a paragraph describing a manifest change in your life recently.)

分析你最喜欢的电影中，导演是如何显明主题的。 (Analyze how the director manifests the theme in your favorite movie.)

记录一次你通过行动显明自己诚实的经历。 (Record an experience where you manifested your honesty through actions.)

描述两种不同文化之间最显明的差异。 (Describe the most manifest differences between two different cultures.)

探讨为什么真理有时需要很长时间才能显明。 (Explore why truth sometimes takes a long time to manifest.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not really. For a clear day, use '晴朗' (qínglǎng) or '明朗' (mínglǎng). 显明 is for abstract truths or traits.

Yes, it is considered a formal or literary word. In casual speech, people almost always use '明显'.

显著 emphasizes the magnitude or scale of a change (notable), while 显明 emphasizes the clarity or manifestation of a quality (evident).

Yes. It can mean 'to manifest' or 'to make clear,' as in '显明真理' (to manifest the truth).

You can use '显明无遗' (xiǎnmíng wú yí).

Yes, in formal reports to describe '显明的优势' (evident advantages) or '显明的效果' (evident effects).

It's better to use '鲜明' (xiānmíng) for vivid colors.

Yes, it typically appears at the B1/B2 levels (HSK 4-5) in reading passages.

No, it is neutral, though it can be used for negative things if they are manifest (e.g., '显明的错误').

You can use it for their traits (e.g., '他的诚实很显明'), but not to describe their physical appearance.