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March 24, 2026
体面(體面)tǐmiàn(ti3mian4)
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.
Frequency#7072DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of face (面子) is crucial, influencing personal and professional relationships. '体面' reflects the importance of maintaining dignity and reputation, which can dictate social interactions and decisions.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person standing tall (体) in a nice outfit (面) at a social event, feeling proud and worthy. The character 体 resembles a body, representing the person, while 面 symbolizes the face they show to the world, emphasizing dignity and appearance.
Meanings of 体面
tǐmiàn(ti3mian4)
1dignity
2face (as in "losing face")
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About 体面
体面Simplified
體面Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名形词xíngróngcíadj-noun (adj.-n.)Part of Speech
#7072Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 体面
Podcast: 体面
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AI Study Notes for 体面
Quick Contrast
体面 (tǐmiàn) vs 光彩 (guāngcǎi) — use 体面 for social dignity or respect, while 光彩 emphasizes brilliance or glory.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person standing tall (体) in a nice outfit (面) at a social event, feeling proud and worthy. The character 体 resembles a body, representing the person, while 面 symbolizes the face they show to the world, emphasizing dignity and appearance.
Usage Notes
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.
HSK Study Tips
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.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of face (面子) is crucial, influencing personal and professional relationships. '体面' reflects the importance of maintaining dignity and reputation, which can dictate social interactions and decisions.
Common Mistakes
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).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 体面
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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.
If you'd married Miss Su, wouldn't that prestigious post be yours? "
9
他为了维护当老师的体面, 是不肯自己去打粥的.
tā wéi le wéi hù dāng lǎo shī de tǐ miàn, , shì bù kěn zì jǐ qù dǎ zhōu.
In order not to lose face , Mr. Xu would not fetch the gruel himself.
Cultural Notes for 体面
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of face (面子) is crucial, influencing personal and professional relationships. '体面' reflects the importance of maintaining dignity and reputation, which can dictate social interactions and decisions.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
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).
'体面' is primarily used in formal or serious contexts, particularly when discussing reputation and social standing.
Yes, it can imply losing face or not meeting social expectations, so context is important.
