If you want to express admiration or compliment someone on their appearance in Chinese, there are various ways to say “good looking.” The phrase you use may depend on the level of formality and the region you are in. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal expressions of “good looking” in Chinese, providing useful tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
1. 好看 (hǎo kàn) – This is the most common and straightforward way to say “good looking” in Chinese. It can be used in various contexts and is universally understood across China.
Example: 你的新发型很好看！ (Nǐ de xīn fàxíng hěn hǎo kàn!) – Your new hairstyle looks great!
2. 相貌出众 (xiàng mào chū zhòng) – This is a slightly more formal expression that translates to “outstanding appearance.” It is often used in more formal situations or when complimenting someone’s overall appearance.
Example: 他的相貌出众，给人留下了深刻的印象。 (Tā de xiàng mào chū zhòng, gěi rén liú xià le shēn kè de yìn xiàng.) – His outstanding appearance left a deep impression on others.
3. 魅力非凡 (mèi lì fēi fán) – This phrase means “extraordinary charm” and is often used to describe someone who not only looks good but also has a captivating presence.
Example: 她的魅力非凡，每个人都愿意靠近她。 (Tā de mèi lì fēi fán, měi gè rén dōu yuàn yì kào jìn tā.) – She has extraordinary charm, and everyone wants to be close to her.
Informal Expressions
1. 帅气 (shuài qì) – This informal phrase can be used to describe someone who looks handsome or cool. It is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations.
Example: 你今天的搭配真帅气！ (Nǐ jīn tiān de dā pèi zhēn shuài qì!) – Your outfit today looks really cool!
2. 美女 (měi nǚ) – Literally meaning “beautiful woman,” this informal term can be used to describe an attractive woman.
Example: 那个女孩真是个美女！ (Nà gè nǚ hái zhēn shì gè měi nǚ!) – That girl is truly a beauty!
3. 帅哥 (shuài gē) – Similar to “美女,” this informal term translates to “handsome guy” and is used to describe a good-looking man.
Example: 那个帅哥真帅，每个女孩都注意到他了！ (Nà gè shuài gē zhēn shuài, měi gè nǚ hái dōu zhù yì dào tā le!) – That handsome guy is so good-looking; every girl noticed him!
Tips for Usage
1. It’s important to consider the context and relationship with the person you are complimenting. Formal expressions are more suitable for professional settings or when addressing someone you are not familiar with, while informal expressions are better used among friends or peers.
2. When complimenting someone’s appearance, it’s always appreciated to be specific. Instead of just saying “好看” (hǎo kàn), you can add more details like “你的新发型很好看” (Nǐ de xīn fàxíng hěn hǎo kàn!) – Your new hairstyle looks great!
3. Remember that beauty standards and preferences can vary across regions and cultures within China. While the expressions mentioned are widely understood, slight regional variations might exist.
4. Don’t hesitate to use these phrases when appropriate. Complimenting someone on their appearance can brighten their day and foster positive relationships.
Now that you know various ways to express “good looking” in Chinese, feel free to use these phrases in your conversations and make someone’s day a little better!
