Meanings of 体面
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About 体面
Podcast: 体面
Podcast: 体面
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AI study notes for 体面
体面 (tǐmiàn) vs 光彩 (guāngcǎi) — use 体面 for social dignity or respect, while 光彩 emphasizes brilliance or glory.
Be cautious with the context in which you use '体面', as it can be both positive and negative depending on the situation—for example, one can 'lose face' (失去体面) or strive to maintain their dignity (保持体面). This term is more formal and is often used in serious conversations about reputation and respect.
As an HSK Level 6 word, '体面' connects with other vocabulary discussing interpersonal relationships and social norms. Focus on understanding its usage in different contexts, especially in relation to concepts of respect and reputation, as these are common in both spoken and written Chinese at this level.
Learners often confuse '体面' with casual terms like '面子' (miànzi), which also means face but has a more informal tone. For example, saying '我想有体面' (I want to have dignity) can sound awkward; instead, use '我想保住面子' (I want to save face).
Pronunciation of 体面
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Component characters
How to say dignity in Chinese
“dignity” in Chinese is体面
The term '体面' (tǐmiàn) refers to one's dignity or social standing, often connected to how one is perceived by others. It encompasses ideas of honor and respect in social interactions, and is frequently used in contexts where maintaining or losing face is significant, such as family gatherings or business negotiations.
When to use 体面
Be cautious with the context in which you use '体面', as it can be both positive and negative depending on the situation—for example, one can 'lose face' (失去体面) or strive to maintain their dignity (保持体面). This term is more formal and is often used in serious conversations about reputation and respect.
体面 or something close to it
体面 (tǐmiàn) vs 光彩 (guāngcǎi) — use 体面 for social dignity or respect, while 光彩 emphasizes brilliance or glory.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '体面' with casual terms like '面子' (miànzi), which also means face but has a more informal tone. For example, saying '我想有体面' (I want to have dignity) can sound awkward; instead, use '我想保住面子' (I want to save face).
Write 体面
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Practice writing 体面 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 体面
体面 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 5 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
他深知此事不____，故不敢说出来。
He was well aware that this matter was disgraceful, and therefore dared not speak of it.
Example sentences for 体面 (9)
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Cultural Notes for 体面
Unlike in many Western cultures where individualism is often prioritized, the Chinese concept of face emphasizes community perception and social harmony, making '体面' a significant aspect of social interactions.
Frequently asked questions about 体面
'体面' can be used like this: '他很有体面' (He has a lot of dignity).
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