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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'figure' or 'silhouette' with 身影 (shēnyǐng)

    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + 的 + 身影

    Explanation

    The noun 身影 (shēnyǐng) means 'figure,' 'silhouette,' or 'form of a person.' It is a literary or descriptive term used to refer to the visible shape or outline of a person, often seen from a distance or in dim conditions. It adds a vivid, visual quality to descriptions.

    Examples

    • 她的身影消失在雨中。

      Tā de shēnyǐng xiāoshī zài yǔ zhōng.

      Her figure disappeared into the rain.

    • 我远远看到了一个熟悉的身影。

      Wǒ yuǎnyuǎn kàndào le yīge shúxī de shēnyǐng.

      I saw a familiar figure from far away.

    • 窗外闪过一个身影，吓了我一跳。

      Chuāng wài shǎn guò yīge shēnyǐng, xià le wǒ yī tiào.

      A figure flashed past the window and gave me a fright.

    Expressing 'figure' or 'silhouette' with 身影 (shēnyǐng) | Chinese Grammar