Understanding "洗脸" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 洗脸
• Pinyin: xǐ liǎn
• Literal Meaning: "wash" (洗) + "face" (脸) = "wash face"
• Primary Meaning: The act of cleaning one's face, typically with water and soap or facial cleanser.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "洗脸" is a daily hygiene activity and is used in both formal and informal contexts.
• It refers specifically to washing the face, not the entire body (which would be "洗澡" - xǐ zǎo).
• Often used in routines, e.g., "早上起床后先洗脸" (After waking up in the morning, wash your face first).

• Can also be used metaphorically, e.g., "丢脸" (lose face) and "洗脸" (wash face) sometimes appear in idioms about reputation.

• Character Breakdown:

• 洗 (xǐ): Means "to wash" or "to clean."
• 脸 (liǎn): Means "face." Together, they form the compound word for "face-washing."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我每天早上用温水洗脸。
   Pinyin: Wǒ měi tiān zǎoshang yòng wēnshuǐ xǐ liǎn.
   English: I wash my face with warm water every morning.

2. Chinese: 洗脸后记得涂保湿霜。
   Pinyin: Xǐ liǎn hòu jìde tú bǎoshī shuāng.
   English: Remember to apply moisturizer after washing your face.

3. Chinese: 她洗脸时总是用洗面奶。
   Pinyin: Tā xǐ liǎn shí zǒng shì yòng xǐmiànnǎi.
   English: She always uses facial cleanser when washing her face.

Cultural Notes

• In traditional Chinese medicine, washing the face with cold water is sometimes believed to improve circulation.
• Skincare is highly valued in Chinese culture, so "洗脸" is often part of a detailed skincare routine.
• In some contexts, "洗脸" can humorously refer to "saving face" or correcting a mistake to restore dignity.

Conclusion

"洗脸" (xǐ liǎn) is a simple yet essential daily activity in Chinese culture, meaning "to wash one's face." Whether for hygiene or skincare, it’s a practical word to know for everyday conversations. Remember: 洗 (wash) + 脸 (face) = face-washing!