noun / localizer HSK 2
below · under · beneath · next · following
Meaning
下面 is a common localizer meaning 'below' or 'under' in spatial contexts, and 'next' or 'following' in sequential contexts. It can refer to physical position (underneath something) or order in a list or text (the next section). It's one of the basic directional words learned early in Mandarin.
Usage
下面 is used both as a standalone noun meaning 'the space below' and after other nouns to form location phrases (like 桌子下面 'under the table'). In written contexts, it commonly means 'the following' or 'below' when referencing text. It's neutral in register and used in both spoken and written Mandarin.
Examples
- 01书在桌子下面。.The book is under the table.
- 02下面我们讨论第二个问题。.Next, we will discuss the second question.
Characters
Common collocations
- 在...下面...under/below ...
- 下面的the following, the below
- 请看下面please see below
Antonyms
Origin
Combines 下 (down) with 面 (surface/side) to literally mean 'lower surface' or 'bottom side', extending metaphorically to sequential meaning.