Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to appear' or 'to seem' with 显得 (xiǎnde)

    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + 显得 + Adjective

    Explanation

    显得 (xiǎnde) means "to appear" or "to seem" and is used to describe how something looks or comes across to others. It emphasizes outward appearance rather than reality. For example, 显得很忙 means "to appear very busy," implying it may not reflect the actual situation.

    Examples

    • 穿了这件衣服，她显得特别年轻。

      Chuān le zhè jiàn yīfu, tā xiǎnde tèbié niánqīng.

      Wearing this outfit, she looks especially young.

    • 下过雨以后，空气显得格外清新。

      Xià guò yǔ yǐhòu, kōngqì xiǎnde géwài qīngxīn.

      After the rain, the air seems exceptionally fresh.

    • 他今天显得有点紧张，可能是因为面试。

      Tā jīntiān xiǎnde yǒudiǎn jǐnzhāng, kěnéng shì yīnwèi miànshì.

      He seems a bit nervous today, probably because of the interview.

    Similar Grammar

    Expressing 'to appear' or 'to seem' with 显得 (xiǎnde) | Chinese Grammar