顔 — meaning in English: face

kao · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for face

最愛の人

sai ai no hito

撤退

tettai

資金調達

shikin chōtatsu

マウス

mausu

顔

kao

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 顔 (kao) in everyday conversations, especially when talking about emotions, expressions, or physical appearance. For example, one might say, '彼の顔は嬉しそうです' (His face looks happy) during a casual chat with friends or family.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 面 (men), which can refer to a surface or face in a more mechanical or abstract sense. While 顔 (kao) is used to describe the human face and expressions, 面 (men) would be used in contexts like '面を作る' (to create a surface) or discussing masks.

Culture

The word 顔 (kao) has deep cultural significance in Japan, as facial expressions are an essential aspect of communication. Interestingly, the phrase '顔が広い' (kao ga hiroi) translates to 'having a wide face,' but it means that someone is well-connected or has many acquaintances. This illustrates how deeply the concept of 'face' is tied to social status and relationships in Japanese culture.

FAQ

Q.What does the Japanese word 顔 (kao) mean in English?

The Japanese word 顔 (kao) translates to 'face' in English, referring to the front part of the head that includes features like the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Q.How is 顔 (kao) used in sentences?

You can use 顔 (kao) in various contexts, such as '彼女の顔は美しい' (Her face is beautiful) or '彼は驚いた顔をしていた' (He had a surprised face).

Q.Are there any common expressions using 顔 (kao)?

Yes, one common expression is '顔を出す' (kao o dasu), which means to make an appearance or show up at an event. It's often used when someone is expected to attend a gathering.

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