noun HSK 4
outward appearance · exterior · surface
Meaning
外表 refers to the outward appearance or external look of something or someone, as opposed to inner qualities or reality. It emphasizes what can be seen from the outside, whether describing a person's physical appearance, an object's exterior, or a superficial impression.
Usage
Commonly used when contrasting appearance with inner reality or true nature. Often appears in phrases like 外表看起来 (appear on the surface) or 不能只看外表 (can't judge only by appearance). Native speakers use it in both formal and informal contexts when discussing looks versus substance.
Examples
- 01不能只看一个人的外表，内在品质更重要。, .You can't judge a person only by their appearance; inner qualities are more important.
- 02他外表看起来很严肃，其实性格很幽默。, .He looks very serious on the surface, but actually has a humorous personality.
Characters
Common collocations
- 外表看起来appear on the surface
- 不看外表don't judge by appearance
- 外表美丽beautiful in appearance
- 外表与内在appearance and inner quality
Antonyms
Origin
Combines 外 (outside) and 表 (surface/exterior) to literally mean 'outer surface,' creating a compound that emphasizes the external or visible aspect of something.