Surface refers to the outermost layer or the outward appearance, often contrasted with the true essence.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Refers to the outermost layer of an object.
- Describes the outward appearance of something.
- Often used to contrast with inner essence.
1) 概述：表面（biǎomiàn）是一个高频词，既有具体的物理含义，也有抽象的引申义。作为物理概念，它指物体与外界接触的部分；作为抽象概念，它指事物展现给外界的现象，区别于本质或内在。
2) 使用模式：在句子中，“表面”常作名词使用。它可以搭配动词（如：停留在表面、掩盖表面），也可以作为定语修饰其他名词（如：表面现象、表面工作）。
3) 常见语境：在日常生活中，人们常说“表面看起来不错”，用以表达第一印象。在职场或学术讨论中，它常用于对比“表面”与“本质”，提醒人们不要被假象迷惑。
4) 近义词辨析：与“外表”相比，“外表”更侧重于人的容貌或物体的外观；“表面”适用范围更广，不仅指外观，还常指事物的浅层层面。与“层面”相比，“表面”强调的是最外层，而“层面”可以指深层或多个维度。
Examples
桌子的表面很光滑。
everydayThe surface of the table is very smooth.
这只是表面现象，不是问题的核心。
formalThis is only a superficial phenomenon, not the core of the problem.
他表面上很冷静，其实心里很紧张。
informalHe looks calm on the surface, but is actually very nervous inside.
该材料的表面处理技术非常先进。
academicThe surface treatment technology for this material is very advanced.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
表面文章
Superficial work/lip service
表面工作
Superficial tasks
浮于表面
Stay on the surface
Often Confused With
Refers specifically to outward appearance or looks, whereas '表面' is broader and can refer to abstract layers.
Refers to levels or dimensions of an issue, while '表面' refers specifically to the most external layer.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is frequently used to discuss the discrepancy between what is seen and what is true. Ensure you do not confuse it with verbs describing surfacing.
Common Mistakes
Learners often try to use it as a verb, which is incorrect. Another common error is using it to describe the interior of something. Remember it strictly refers to the exterior or the 'top' layer.
Tips
Use with contrastive words
Pair '表面' with words like '本质' (essence) or '内心' (inner heart) to create meaningful contrasts in your sentences.
Avoid using as a verb
Remember that '表面' is a noun. Do not try to use it to describe an action like 'surfacing'.
Chinese philosophy on appearance
In Chinese culture, distinguishing between '表面' (the appearance) and '本质' (the truth) is a core aspect of critical thinking and wisdom.
Word Origin
Derived from '表' (outside/top) and '面' (face/side). Combined, they represent the face or side that is on the outside.
Cultural Context
The concept of '表面' is often used in Chinese social contexts to discuss 'saving face' or maintaining social harmony, where the external appearance is prioritized.
Memory Tip
Think of a table's top surface. Just as you see the top of the table first, '表面' is what you see on the outside first.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions“外表”多用于形容人的长相或物体的外观，而“表面”既可以指外观，也可以指事物的浅层部分或虚假的现象。
“表面现象”指事物显露在外部、容易被看到的特征，通常暗示这些特征可能无法反映事物的真实本质。
不可以，“表面”在现代汉语中主要是名词。如果想表达“浮现”或“显露”的意思，通常使用“浮现”或“显露”等词。
非常常用。比如评价一个人或一件事情时，常说“这只是表面现象”。
Test Yourself
我们不能只看事情的___，要深入了解真相。
根据句意，这里需要表达“外在现象”的意思，所以用“表面”。
Score: /1
Summary
Surface refers to the outermost layer or the outward appearance, often contrasted with the true essence.
- Refers to the outermost layer of an object.
- Describes the outward appearance of something.
- Often used to contrast with inner essence.
Use with contrastive words
Pair '表面' with words like '本质' (essence) or '内心' (inner heart) to create meaningful contrasts in your sentences.
Avoid using as a verb
Remember that '表面' is a noun. Do not try to use it to describe an action like 'surfacing'.
Chinese philosophy on appearance
In Chinese culture, distinguishing between '表面' (the appearance) and '本质' (the truth) is a core aspect of critical thinking and wisdom.
Examples
4 of 4桌子的表面很光滑。
The surface of the table is very smooth.
这只是表面现象，不是问题的核心。
This is only a superficial phenomenon, not the core of the problem.
他表面上很冷静，其实心里很紧张。
He looks calm on the surface, but is actually very nervous inside.
该材料的表面处理技术非常先进。
The surface treatment technology for this material is very advanced.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
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生物
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模糊
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推算
B1To calculate, estimate, or figure out something using data, logic, or mathematical methods. It implies a process of reasoning from known facts to unknown values.
校准
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