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B1 verb #4,000 most common 9 min read

流露

liúlù Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 流露 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 流露 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '流露' (liúlù) yourself, as it is quite advanced. However, you can think of it as a fancy way to say 'to show' (看出来 - kàn chū lái). When you see someone smiling, you 'see' their happiness. In higher-level Chinese, we say their happiness '流露' (reveals itself). For now, just remember that Chinese has special words for how feelings show on your face or in your eyes. If you see a picture of a happy child, you can say '他很高兴' (He is happy). Later, you will learn to say '他流露出高兴的样子' (He shows a happy look).

By A2, you are learning more about emotions and descriptions. '流露' (liúlù) is a verb that means 'to show' or 'to reveal,' but it's usually for feelings that come out naturally. Imagine you are trying to be brave, but your eyes show that you are scared. That 'showing' is '流露.' You will mostly see this in reading passages about people's feelings. A simple way to remember it is: 'Inside feeling' + '流露' = 'Outside look.' For example: '他的脸上流露出笑容' (A smile showed on his face). It's more descriptive than just saying '他笑了' (He smiled).

At the B1 level, '流露' (liúlù) is an important word for describing people's subtle reactions. It means 'to reveal' or 'to betray' an emotion or thought, often unintentionally. You should start using it in your writing to make your descriptions more vivid. Instead of saying 'He is sad,' you can say '他的眼神里流露出悲伤' (His eyes reveal sadness). This makes your Chinese sound more mature and observant. Pay attention to the structure: [Source, like eyes/voice] + 流露出 + [Emotion]. It is a very common word in stories and news reports when describing how someone feels about an event.

At the B2 level, you should master the nuance of '流露' (liúlù) versus other 'revealing' words like '透露' (tòulù - to disclose info) or '显露' (xiǎnlù - to become visible). '流露' is specifically for the spontaneous manifestation of internal psychological states. You will encounter it in more complex literature and formal essays. It often appears with the resultative complement '出' or the continuous particle '着'. You should be able to use it to describe the atmosphere of a scene or the underlying tone of a piece of writing, such as '字里行间流露出对家乡的思念' (The longing for home is revealed between the lines).

For C1 learners, '流露' (liúlù) is a tool for deep psychological and social analysis. You should understand its use in describing the 'mask' of social interaction—how true intentions '流露' despite one's efforts to hide them. It is frequently used in literary criticism to discuss the 'subtext' or 'spirit' of a work. You should also be familiar with its use in fixed expressions like '真情流露' (the natural revelation of true feelings), which is highly valued in Chinese aesthetics and interpersonal relationships. At this level, you should be able to distinguish the subtle difference in register between '流露' and '表露' in various contexts.

At the C2 level, you should have a native-like grasp of '流露' (liúlù), including its poetic and philosophical implications. You can use it to describe the most subtle 'leakage' of human character or the profound 'aura' of an artistic masterpiece. You might use it in a philosophical discussion about the nature of authenticity versus social performance. The word becomes a way to discuss the 'unconscious' in a Chinese linguistic context. You should also be able to appreciate how the word is used in classical-style modern prose to create a sense of '含蓄' (hánxù - reserve), where the most important feelings are never stated directly but only '流露' through carefully chosen details.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

流露 in 30 Seconds

A verb meaning to reveal emotions or thoughts naturally and often unintentionally through external signs like faces or words.
Commonly used in literature and formal contexts to describe the 'leakage' of true inner states or attitudes.
Usually pairs with abstract nouns (joy, sorrow, intent) and often uses the directional complement '出' (chū).
Distinguished from '表达' (intentional expression) by its spontaneous and sometimes involuntary nature.

The Chinese verb 流露 (liúlù) is a sophisticated and evocative term used to describe the way internal emotions, thoughts, or attitudes manifest themselves externally, often without the person intending for them to be seen. At its core, the word combines the character 流 (liú), meaning 'to flow,' with 露 (lù), meaning 'dew' or 'to reveal.' This etymological combination suggests a natural, fluid process—much like water leaking through a small crack or dew appearing on a leaf at dawn. It is rarely used for the intentional 'telling' of a secret; rather, it refers to the 'showing' of a feeling through one's eyes, tone of voice, or body language.

Semantic Nuance: Unlike '表达' (biǎodá), which is a deliberate act of expression, '流露' implies a certain lack of control. It is the subconscious 'seeping out' of the soul's true state. You might try to hide your disappointment, but it '流露' (reveals itself) in the slight downturn of your mouth.
Typical Objects: The objects of this verb are almost always abstract nouns related to the human psyche: 情感 (emotions), 喜悦 (joy), 忧伤 (sadness), 真实想法 (true thoughts), or 优越感 (a sense of superiority).

他的言语中自然而然地流露出一种自信。
(His words naturally revealed a sense of self-confidence.)

In modern Chinese society, where emotional restraint is often valued (the concept of '含蓄' or hánxù), '流露' is a powerful word. It captures those moments of vulnerability or authenticity where the 'mask' slips. Writers use it to describe a character's true nature, and journalists use it to analyze the subtle reactions of public figures during interviews. It is a word of observation; it requires an observer to notice the 'flow' of emotion.

虽然她没说话，但眼神里流露出了满满的爱意。
(Although she didn't speak, her eyes revealed a wealth of love.)

Furthermore, '流露' can be used to describe the 'spirit' or 'atmosphere' of a work of art. A painting might '流露' a sense of loneliness, or a piece of music might '流露' the composer's longing for home. In these contexts, the word suggests that the emotion is baked into the very fabric of the creation, waiting to be perceived by the audience.

Collocation with '出' (chū): You will very frequently see it followed by the directional complement '出' (to come out). For example, '流露出笑容' (a smile revealing itself) or '流露出不满' (dissatisfaction showing through).

In summary, '流露' is the bridge between the hidden internal world and the visible external world. It is the quiet leak of truth in a world of controlled expressions. Whether it is a mother's pride, a child's fear, or a poet's melancholy, '流露' is the verb that brings these invisible forces into the light of day.

Mastering the use of 流露 (liúlù) requires understanding its grammatical flexibility and its specific semantic constraints. While it is a verb, it almost always functions as part of a larger descriptive phrase that captures the 'source' of the emotion and the 'nature' of the emotion being revealed.

Pattern 1: Source + 流露出 + Emotion: This is the most common structure. The 'source' is usually a part of the body (eyes, face, voice) or a form of behavior (writing, speech).

Example: 他的眼神里流露出一种淡淡的哀愁。 (His eyes revealed a faint sorrow.)
Pattern 2: 无意中 + 流露: Because '流露' is often involuntary, the adverb '无意中' (unintentionally/accidentally) is its perfect partner.

Example: 他在谈话中无意中流露了自己的真实意图。 (He unintentionally revealed his true intentions during the conversation.)

字里行间流露着作者对家乡的热爱。
(The love for his hometown is revealed between the lines of the author's writing.)

One important distinction to make is that '流露' is rarely used for physical objects. You cannot say '水从杯子里流露出来' (Water revealed itself from the cup) if you mean the water is leaking. For physical leakage, use '流出' or '漏出'. '流露' is strictly for the metaphysical—feelings, thoughts, character traits, and vibes.

这种情绪在她的作品中得到了充分的流露。
(This emotion was fully revealed in her works.)

When describing someone's personality, '流露' acts as a subtle indicator. Instead of saying 'He is arrogant' (他很傲慢), saying '他的语气中流露出傲慢' (Arrogance shows through his tone) provides a more descriptive and nuanced observation. It focuses on the evidence of the trait rather than just labeling the person.

Negative vs. Positive: '流露' is neutral. It can be used for positive things (流露真情 - revealing true feelings) or negative things (流露不满 - revealing dissatisfaction). The context determines the tone.

Finally, consider the 'degree' of the revelation. You can use modifiers like '自然地' (naturally), '不经意地' (carelessly/casually), or '充分地' (fully) to qualify how the emotion is coming out. This allows for very precise storytelling and reporting.

In the real world, 流露 (liúlù) is a staple of literary Chinese, formal reporting, and psychological analysis. While you might not hear it every five minutes in a casual street market, it is omnipresent in media that deals with human experience and social observation.

In Literature and Novels: Authors love this word because it allows them to 'show, not tell.' Instead of telling the reader a character is sad, they will write about the '忧郁' (melancholy) that '流露' from the character's brow. It adds a layer of poetic realism to the narrative.
In News and Journalism: When a politician gives a speech, analysts look for what they '流露.' For example: '他在讲话中流露出对未来经济的担忧' (He revealed concerns about the future economy in his speech). It suggests the reporter is reading between the lines.

听到这个消息，他脸上流露出了难以掩饰的喜悦。
(Upon hearing the news, a joy that was hard to hide was revealed on his face.)

You will also encounter '流露' in film reviews and art criticism. Critics often discuss the '情感流露' (revelation of emotion) in an actor's performance. If an actor is 'wooden,' a critic might say their performance '缺乏情感流露' (lacks emotional revelation). Conversely, a powerful scene is often praised for its '真情流露' (revelation of true feelings).

他的歌声中流露出对往事的无限怀念。
(His singing reveals an infinite nostalgia for the past.)

In psychological or counseling contexts, '流露' is used to describe the breakthrough of repressed feelings. A therapist might note that a patient '流露' signs of trauma when discussing a certain topic. This usage highlights the 'leakage' aspect—the idea that the truth will eventually find a way out.

Finally, in daily life, you might use it when gossiping or discussing friends. '你有没有发现，他最近对小王流露出特别的好感？' (Have you noticed he's been showing a special liking for Xiao Wang lately?). It adds a touch of observation and insight to your conversation.

While 流露 (liúlù) is a versatile word, English speakers often trip up by using it in contexts where more direct or physical words are required. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Using it for Physical Objects: Incorrect: 咖啡从杯子里流露出来了。 (Coffee revealed itself out of the cup.)
Correct: 咖啡从杯子里流出来了。 (Coffee flowed out of the cup.)
Explanation: '流露' is only for abstract things like emotions or thoughts. For liquids or physical items, use '流出' (flow out) or '露出' (be exposed/show).
Mistake 2: Confusing it with '表达' (Expressing): Incorrect: 我想流露我的感谢。 (I want to reveal my thanks.)
Correct: 我想表达我的感谢。 (I want to express my thanks.)
Explanation: '流露' is usually unintentional or a natural manifestation. If you are making a conscious effort to say 'Thank you,' '表达' is the correct choice. '流露' is what happens when you are so happy that you can't stop smiling.

不要在敌人面前流露恐惧。
(Don't let fear show in front of the enemy.)

Another common error is using '流露' for information or secrets. If you accidentally tell someone a secret, that is '泄露' (xièlòu - to leak information). '流露' is about the *feeling* behind the secret, not the data of the secret itself. For example, if you are nervous while keeping a secret, your nervousness '流露,' but the secret itself '泄露.'

他的话语中流露出一种不屑。
(A sense of disdain showed through his words.)

Finally, pay attention to the subject. Usually, the subject is the emotion itself or the person's features (eyes, face). If the subject is a person, you almost always need the directional complement '出'. You wouldn't just say '他流露了悲伤' as often as you would say '他流露出了悲伤' or '他的眼神流露着悲伤.'

To truly master 流露 (liúlù), you must see how it sits alongside its cousins in the Chinese lexicon. Each of these words deals with 'showing' or 'revealing,' but they operate in different spheres.

流露 vs. 表露 (biǎolù): These are very close, but '表露' is slightly more formal and can sometimes imply a more active display. '流露' is almost always spontaneous and 'leaking' out. '表露' is often used in written reports (e.g., 表露心声 - to reveal one's inner voice).

Example: 他表露了参与项目的意愿。 (He expressed/revealed his willingness to join the project.)
流露 vs. 显露 (xiǎnlù): '显露' focuses on the result of something becoming visible or apparent. It can be used for physical things (like a reef appearing when the tide goes out) as well as abstract things (like a person's talent). '流露' is specifically for the 'flow' of internal states.

Example: 雾散了，远处的山影显露了出来。 (The fog lifted, and the silhouette of the distant mountains appeared.)

这种情感的流露非常动人。
(This revelation of emotion is very moving.)

Another word to consider is 透露 (tòulù). This means 'to disclose' or 'to leak' information or a secret. It is used for facts, news, or plans. You '透露' a piece of news, but you '流露' your excitement about that news. One is informational; the other is emotional.

他的眼神里流露着一种坚定。
(A sense of determination is revealed in his eyes.)

Lastly, 表现 (biǎoxiàn) is a very broad word meaning 'to show' or 'to perform.' It is used for behavior and performance. '他在学校表现很好' (He performs well at school). '流露' is much more specific to the 'unveiling' of an inner state through a particular moment or detail.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '露' (lù) is also used in '露水' (dew) and '露天' (open-air). The idea is that something hidden 'comes out' into the open air. Combined with 'flow,' it emphasizes the unstoppable nature of true feelings.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /liːʊ lùː/

US /liʊ lu/

The stress is balanced, but the fourth tone on 'lù' gives it a stronger ending emphasis.

Rhymes With

牛 (niú) 球 (qiú) 路 (lù) 步 (bù) 度 (dù) 求 (qiú) 休 (xiū) 住 (zhù)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'liu' as 'loo'. It should have a slight 'i' sound (lee-oo).
Pronouncing 'lu' with a second tone (lú) instead of the fourth tone (lù).
Confusing the 'u' in 'lu' with 'ü' (lyu). It is a plain 'u' sound.
Failing to rise enough on the second tone 'liú'.
Failing to drop sharply enough on the fourth tone 'lù'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in literature and news, but requires understanding abstract objects.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct collocation with abstract nouns and directional complements.

Speaking 4/5

Used in more sophisticated conversations; beginners usually stick to '说' or '看出来'.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but context is key to understanding what is being revealed.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

流 (liú) 露 (lù) 感情 (gǎnqíng) 表现 (biǎoxiàn) 表达 (biǎodá)

Learn Next

透露 (tòulù) 表露 (biǎolù) 显露 (xiǎnlù) 含蓄 (hánxù) 真性情 (zhēnxìngqíng)

Advanced

溢于言表 (yìyúyánbiǎo) 情见乎辞 (qíngjiànhūcí) 微言大义 (wēiyándàyì)

Grammar to Know

Resultative Complements (出/出来)

他流露‘出’了满意的神情。

Existential Sentences with '着'

他的眼神里流露‘着’一种淡淡的哀愁。

Abstract Nouns as Objects

流露出 + [喜悦/悲伤/不满/渴望].

Adverbial Modification (地)

他‘自然而然地’流露出了对家人的爱。

Topic-Comment Structure

这种感情，在他的作品中得到了‘充分的流露’。

Examples by Level

他的脸上流露出笑容。

A smile appeared on his face.

Simple Subject + Location + Verb + Object.

她流露出开心的样子。

She showed a happy look.

Using '样子' (look/manner) with the verb.

老师流露出满意的表情。

The teacher showed a satisfied expression.

Focus on '表情' (expression).

孩子眼中流露出好奇。

Curiosity showed in the child's eyes.

Eyes as the source of the feeling.

他流露出一点点难过。

He showed a little bit of sadness.

Using '一点点' to modify the degree.

她的声音流露出快乐。

Her voice revealed happiness.

Voice as the source.

大家流露出惊讶的神情。

Everyone showed a surprised look.

Plural subject.

他流露出想回家的心情。

He revealed a mood of wanting to go home.

Using '心情' (mood) as the object.

看到礼物，他流露出了惊喜。

Seeing the gift, he revealed surprise and joy.

Contextual phrase '看到...' followed by the result.

他的话里流露出对朋友的关心。

His words revealed concern for his friend.

Source is '话里' (in his words).

她的眼神里流露出温柔。

Gentleness showed in her eyes.

Abstract noun '温柔' (gentleness).

他无意中流露了自己的害怕。

He unintentionally revealed his fear.

Using '无意中' (unintentionally).

这篇文章流露出作者的悲伤。

This article reveals the author's sadness.

Subject is a piece of writing.

听到好消息，她脸上流露出光彩。

Hearing the good news, her face glowed with joy.

Metaphorical object '光彩' (radiance).

他流露出对这份工作的喜爱。

He revealed his liking for this job.

Using '对...的喜爱' (liking for...).

从他的动作中，流露出一种自信。

From his actions, a kind of confidence was revealed.

Source phrase '从...中'.

他在不经意间流露出了真实的感情。

He revealed his true feelings inadvertently.

Using '在不经意间' (inadvertently).

字里行间流露出他对故乡的思念。

The longing for his hometown is revealed between the lines.

Classic idiom-like phrase '字里行间'.

她的神态中流露出一丝不安。

A trace of unease was revealed in her demeanor.

Using '一丝' (a trace/a hint).

虽然他没说，但眼神已经流露了一切。

Although he didn't say anything, his eyes already revealed everything.

Contrasting speech with visual revelation.

这首诗流露出浓厚的爱国情怀。

This poem reveals a strong sense of patriotism.

Subject is a poem; object is '情怀' (sentiment).

他在谈话中流露出对未来的担忧。

He revealed concerns about the future during the conversation.

Verb + prepositional phrase + Object.

这种情绪在画作中得到了充分的流露。

This emotion was fully revealed in the painting.

Passive-like structure with '得到...流露'.

他脸上的每一道皱纹都流露着岁月的痕迹。

Every wrinkle on his face reveals the traces of time.

Metaphorical use of '流露' for traces of time.

他的语气中不自觉地流露出一种优越感。

A sense of superiority unconsciously leaked into his tone.

Using '不自觉地' (unconsciously).

面对困难，他流露出坚韧不拔的意志。

In the face of difficulty, he revealed an indomitable will.

Object is a complex character trait.

她的笑容里隐藏着忧伤，却又流露着坚强。

Her smile hid sadness, yet revealed strength.

Parallel structure with '隐藏' and '流露'.

整部电影都流露出一种压抑的氛围。

The entire movie reveals a suppressed atmosphere.

Using '流露' to describe '氛围' (atmosphere).

他试图掩饰，但还是流露出了破绽。

He tried to cover it up, but a flaw was still revealed.

Abstract object '破绽' (flaw/giveaway).

这种真情流露最能打动观众的心。

This revelation of true feelings can best touch the audience's hearts.

Using '真情流露' as a noun phrase.

他的眼神中流露出一种难以言说的寂寞。

His eyes revealed an unspeakable loneliness.

Using '难以言说' (hard to describe).

在字里行间，我们可以读出他流露出的无奈。

Between the lines, we can read the helplessness he revealed.

Combining '读出' (read out) and '流露'.

他在处理危机时流露出的冷静令人佩服。

The calmness he revealed while handling the crisis is admirable.

Relative clause: '...时流露出的冷静'.

这篇文章流露出作者对现代文明的深刻反思。

This article reveals the author's profound reflection on modern civilization.

High-level object '深刻反思' (profound reflection).

虽然他言辞激烈，但内心流露出的却是善良。

Although his words were fierce, what his heart revealed was kindness.

Contrastive '却是' (is actually).

他的神态举止中流露出一种贵族气质。

His demeanor and behavior revealed an aristocratic temperament.

Using '神态举止' (demeanor and behavior).

这种情感的自然流露，正是艺术的灵魂所在。

This natural revelation of emotion is exactly where the soul of art lies.

Philosophical statement about art.

他在字里行间流露出的幽默感化解了尴尬。

The sense of humor he revealed between the lines dissolved the awkwardness.

Abstract object '幽默感' (sense of humor).

她的双眼流露出对知识的极度渴求。

Her eyes revealed an extreme thirst for knowledge.

Using '极度渴求' (extreme thirst/longing).

即便在最绝望的时候，他也流露出对生命的眷恋。

Even in the most desperate times, he revealed an attachment to life.

Using '即便' (even if).

他的笔触间流露出一种超脱尘世的淡然。

His brushstrokes reveal a detached indifference to the world.

Literary object '超脱尘世的淡然'.

这种不经意间流露的真性情，最是难能可贵。

This true nature revealed inadvertently is most precious.

Using '难能可贵' (rare and precious).

他在谈笑风生中流露出的机锋，常人难以察觉。

The sharp wit he revealed while talking and laughing is hard for ordinary people to detect.

Using '机锋' (sharp wit/Zen-like insight).

整部著作流露出作者对人类命运的终极关怀。

The entire work reveals the author's ultimate concern for the fate of humanity.

Object '终极关怀' (ultimate concern).

那种从骨子里流露出的傲气，是掩饰不住的。

That arrogance revealed from the very marrow of his bones cannot be hidden.

Metaphorical '从骨子里' (from the bones).

他的每一句叹息都流露出对时代变迁的无奈。

Every one of his sighs reveals a sense of helplessness regarding the changes of the era.

Object '时代变迁' (changes of the era).

他在诗中流露出的禅意，需要细细品味。

The Zen flavor revealed in his poems needs to be savored carefully.

Object '禅意' (Zen flavor/spirit).

这种情感的流露并非刻意，而是厚积薄发的结果。

This revelation of emotion is not deliberate, but the result of gradual accumulation and sudden release.

Using the idiom '厚积薄发'.

Common Collocations

流露出笑容

眼神里流露出...

自然地流露

无意中流露

字里行间流露

流露出真情

语气中流露出

充分地流露

流露出厌恶

笔端流露

Common Phrases

真情流露

— The natural revelation of true feelings. It is often used to praise sincerity.

这篇文章真情流露，读来感人至深。

不经意间流露

— To reveal something unintentionally or without thinking.

他在不经意间流露出了对家乡的怀念。

流露无遗

— To reveal completely without leaving anything hidden.

他的野心在这次会议上流露无遗。

情感流露

— The manifestation of emotions.

演员在舞台上的情感流露非常到位。

自然流露

— To reveal naturally without artificiality.

好的诗歌应该是自然流露的结果。

流露出破绽

— To reveal a flaw or a giveaway (often in a story or a lie).

在警方的盘问下，他终于流露出了破绽。

流露出渴望

— To show a strong desire or longing.

他的双眼流露出对自由的渴望。

流露出不满

— To show dissatisfaction or resentment.

他的话语中明显流露出对现状的不满。

流露出自豪

— To show pride.

提到儿子，他的脸上流露出由衷的自豪。

流露出悲悯

— To show compassion or pity.

他的眼神中流露出对弱者的悲悯。

Often Confused With

流露 vs 透露

透露 (tòulù) is for information/secrets; 流露 (liúlù) is for emotions/internal states.

流露 vs 显露

显露 (xiǎnlù) is for things becoming visible (physical or abstract); 流露 is specifically for the 'flow' of feelings.

流露 vs 表露

表露 (biǎolù) is more formal and can be intentional; 流露 is usually spontaneous.

Idioms & Expressions

"真情流露"

— True feelings are revealed naturally. Used to describe sincere expression.

电影中母子重逢的画面，真是真情流露。

General

"流露无遗"

— To be revealed completely; nothing is hidden.

他对权力的渴望在这次演讲中流露无遗。

Literary/Formal

"自然流露"

— Natural manifestation of feelings without pretense.

她的美丽是一种从内而外的自然流露。

General

"神情流露"

— Expression revealing inner state.

他的神情流露出他此刻内心的挣扎。

Formal

"溢于言表"

— (Related idiom) Feelings overflowing into words and expressions.

他的喜悦之情溢于言表。

Literary

"形于色"

— (Related idiom) To show one's feelings on one's face (usually negative).

他喜怒不形于色，让人猜不透。

Literary

"微言大义"

— (Related concept) Subtle words revealing profound meaning.

这部作品微言大义，流露出深刻的哲理。

Literary

"言外之意"

— (Related concept) Meaning revealed beyond the literal words.

他的话里流露出不少言外之意。

General

"弦外之音"

— (Related concept) Overtones; implied meaning revealed indirectly.

听他的话，你能听出其中流露的弦外之音吗？

General

"情见乎辞"

— True feelings are revealed in the words used.

这封悼词写得情见乎辞，流露出深切的哀悼。

Very Formal/Classical

Easily Confused

流露 vs 透露

Both mean 'reveal' and sound similar.

透露 is like 'disclose' (facts/info). 流露 is like 'betray' or 'show' (feelings). You reveal a plan (透露), but you reveal your excitement (流露).

他透露了消息，但流露了不安。

流露 vs 泄露

Both involve something 'leaking' out.

泄露 (xièlòu) is for secrets or physical leaks (gas/water). 流露 is only for abstract psychological states.

机密泄露了，他流露出恐惧。

流露 vs 露出

Both mean 'show'.

露出 (lùchū) is usually physical (show teeth, show a corner of a book). 流露 is abstract (show joy).

他露出了牙齿，流露了杀气。

流露 vs 表现

Both can be translated as 'show' or 'manifest'.

表现 (biǎoxiàn) refers to overall behavior or performance. 流露 is a specific moment where an inner state becomes visible.

他在比赛中表现很好，流露出了必胜的决心。

流露 vs 表白

Both start with 'reveal' concepts.

表白 (biǎobái) is specifically to confess love or explain oneself clearly. 流露 is an indirect showing of feelings.

他还没表白，但眼神已经流露了爱意。

Sentence Patterns

S + 脸上 + 流露出 + Adj + 的表情

他脸上流露出开心的表情。

S + 眼神里 + 流露出 + N (emotion)

她的眼神里流露出深深的忧虑。

无意中 + 流露出 + N (thought/intent)

他无意中流露了自己的真实想法。

字里行间 + 流露出 + N (sentiment)

字里行间流露出作者对故乡的思念。

语气中 + 流露出 + 一丝 + N (emotion)

他的语气中流露出了一丝不快。

S + 流露出的 + N + 令人 + Adj

他流露出的自信令人佩服。

这种 + N (emotion) + 的流露 + 是 + ...

这种情感的自然流露是非常感人的。

从骨子里 + 流露出 + N

他从骨子里流露出一种高傲。

Word Family

Nouns

流露 (can act as a noun meaning 'revelation')

流露物 (something revealed - rare)

Verbs

流 (to flow)

露 (to reveal/expose)

流露 (to reveal emotion)

Adjectives

流露的 (revealing - used in clauses)

表露

显露

透露

泄露

吐露

How to Use It

frequency

High in written Chinese, medium-high in educated spoken Chinese.

Common Mistakes

咖啡从杯子里流露出来。 → 咖啡从杯子里流出来了。
You cannot use '流露' for physical liquids. It is only for abstract emotions.
他流露了明天开会的秘密。 → 他透露了明天开会的秘密。
Secrets and information use '透露', not '流露'.
我想流露我的感谢之情。 → 我想表达我的感谢之情。
'流露' is usually unintentional. If you are making a conscious effort to thank someone, use '表达'.
他的表情流露着一个笑容。 → 他的脸上流露着笑容。
Collocation: Smiles are revealed 'on the face' or 'in the expression,' but you don't 'reveal a smile' like an object; the smile *is* the revelation.
从他的衣服中流露出他的贫穷。 → 从他的衣着中显露出他的贫穷。
'流露' is better for emotions. For a status or condition revealed by physical appearance, '显露' or '显示' is more appropriate.

Tips

Pair with Abstract Nouns

Always follow '流露' with an abstract noun like 喜悦, 担忧, 情感, or 意图. It never takes physical objects as direct objects.

The 'Involuntary' Aspect

Use it when the person might be trying to hide their feelings. It adds a layer of depth to your storytelling by suggesting subtext.

Use with '着' or '出'

Use '流露着' for a lingering feeling and '流露出' for a moment of revelation. This makes your Chinese sound more natural.

Literary Flair

In essays, '流露' is a high-scoring word. Use it to describe the themes of a book or the emotions of a historical figure.

Sound Observant

When talking about others, say '他眼神里流露出一丝...' to show you are paying attention to their subtle signals.

Understand 'Hanxu'

Remember that in Chinese culture, what is 'revealed' (流露) is often more important than what is 'said' (说).

The 'In' Phrase

Start your sentence with '在...中' or '...里' to specify where the emotion is showing from (e.g., '在谈话中', '在眼神里').

Don't Confuse with '透露'

Information = 透露. Emotion = 流露. Keep this simple rule in mind to avoid common errors.

Learn '真情流露'

This is a very common four-character phrase. Use it to describe genuine, heartfelt moments.

Tone Practice

The jump from 2nd tone (liú) to 4th tone (lù) is a common pattern in Chinese. Practice it to improve your overall prosody.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Liquid (流) Luck (露)'. When you have 'Liquid Luck,' your true feelings 'flow' out like 'dew' (露) on a leaf. It's the 'flow of dew' from your soul.

Visual Association

Imagine a cracked vase. Inside the vase is a bright light (your feelings). The light 'leaks' or 'flows' through the cracks. Those cracks are your eyes or your voice. That leakage is '流露'.

Word Web

情感 (Emotion) 眼神 (Eyesight/Look) 自然 (Natural) 无意 (Unintentional) 表达 (Express) 隐藏 (Hide) 真诚 (Sincere) 破绽 (Flaw)

Challenge

Try to describe a person's reaction to a surprise without using the words '高兴' (happy) or '生气' (angry). Use '流露' to describe what you see in their eyes or face.

Word Origin

Composed of '流' (liú - flow) and '露' (lù - dew/reveal). The character '流' depicts water flowing in a channel. The character '露' originally referred to dew, which appears on plants in the morning, and by extension came to mean 'to become visible' or 'to expose.'

Original meaning: The natural and fluid manifestation of something previously hidden, much like water seeping or dew forming.

Sino-Tibetan / Chinese

Cultural Context

Be careful when using '流露' to describe someone's negative traits (like arrogance) in their presence, as it implies you are 'reading' them, which can be seen as intrusive or overly analytical.

English speakers might use 'betray' (e.g., 'his eyes betrayed his fear') or 'give away' in similar contexts, though 'reveal' is the most direct translation.

Classical poetry often uses the concept of '情流于言' (feelings flowing into words), a precursor to the modern '流露'. Modern Chinese novelists like Lu Xun or Eileen Chang frequently use '流露' to describe the psychological states of their characters. In Chinese calligraphy, the 'spirit' of the calligrapher is said to '流露' through the brushstrokes.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing facial expressions

脸上流露出笑容
神情流露出不安
眼神流露出坚定
眉宇间流露出忧愁

Analyzing writing or art

字里行间流露出
画作流露出诗意
笔触流露出情感
文章流露出思想

Discussing speech and tone

语气中流露出不满
话语间流露出期待
谈话中流露出意图
口吻流露出傲慢

Psychological observation

无意中流露真情
不自觉地流露破绽
内心世界的流露
潜意识的流露

Social interactions

流露出对某人的好感
流露出厌烦的情绪
流露出合作的诚意
流露出竞争的压力

Conversation Starters

"你有没有发现他最近说话总是流露出一种不耐烦？"

"在那次演讲中，你觉得市长流露出了真实的诚意吗？"

"我看你眼神里流露出一丝疲惫，是不是最近太累了？"

"这篇文章字里行间流露出的幽默感，你觉得是谁写的？"

"当他提到那个项目时，脸上流露出的表情非常奇怪，你注意到了吗？"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你试图隐藏情感，却还是不经意间流露出来的经历。

你认为在艺术创作中，‘真情流露’是否比技巧更重要？为什么？

观察一个你身边的人，写下他们神情中流露出的微小细节，并推测他们的心情。

分析你最喜欢的一本书，讨论作者在字里行间流露出了什么样的价值观。

谈谈在社交场合中，流露出过多的真实想法是好事还是坏事。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, '流露' is strictly for abstract things like emotions, thoughts, or vibes. For physical leaks like water or gas, use '漏' (lòu) or '流出' (liúchū).

It is neutral. It depends on what is being revealed. You can reveal joy (positive) or reveal hatred (negative). It simply describes the act of showing.

'表达' (biǎodá) is an intentional act of expressing something (like speaking or writing). '流露' (liúlù) is often unintentional—the feeling just comes out naturally through your demeanor.

Yes, it can function as a noun meaning 'revelation' or 'manifestation,' as in '这种情感的流露' (this revelation of emotion).

Not always, but it is very common. '流露出' emphasizes the movement from inside to outside. You can also use '流露着' to describe a continuous state.

Yes, it is more formal and literary than '看出来' (kàn chū lái). You'll find it often in books, news, and formal speeches.

It's better to say '泄露秘密' (reveal a secret). '流露' is for the *feeling* of having a secret, not the secret itself.

Common subjects include parts of the body (眼神, 脸上, 眉宇间), forms of expression (语气, 话语, 笔端), or works of art (作品, 诗歌, 画作).

His eyes revealed sadness: '他的眼神里流露出悲伤' (Tā de yǎnshén lǐ liúlù chūle bēishāng).

No, for smells, use '散发' (sànfā). '流露' is only for psychological or abstract qualities.