adjective HSK 5
affected · artificial · pretentious · contrived
Meaning
做作 describes behavior, manner, or expression that is artificial, unnatural, or overly theatrical. It refers to someone putting on airs or acting in a way that feels forced rather than genuine. The term carries a negative connotation, suggesting insincerity or pretentiousness.
Usage
Commonly used to criticize someone's affected speech, exaggerated gestures, or insincere behavior. Often describes people who are trying too hard to impress others or who lack naturalness in their demeanor. Can describe both speaking style and physical mannerisms.
Examples
- 01她说话的样子太做作了，一点都不自然。, .The way she talks is too affected; it's not natural at all.
- 02我不喜欢他做作的表演风格，感觉很假。, .I don't like his contrived acting style; it feels very fake.
Characters
Common collocations
- 很做作very affected/artificial
- 说话做作to speak affectedly
- 显得做作to appear affected
- 做作的笑容an artificial smile
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 做 (to do/make) and 作 (to act/behave), literally meaning to deliberately act or put on a performance, emphasizing the artificial nature of the behavior.