外観 — meaning in English: appearance

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

Guess the translation for appearance

好意

kōi

乗り

nori

外観

gaikan

シーケンス

shīkensu

ドラマ

dorama

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 外観 (gaikan) when discussing the appearance of objects, buildings, or even people. For instance, you might hear it in conversations about the 外観 of a new restaurant or a colleague's style at a business meeting.

Synonyms & nuances

While 外観 (gaikan) refers specifically to the visual appearance, 形状 (keijō) emphasizes shape or form rather than appearance. You would choose 外観 when discussing overall looks, whereas 形状 would be more appropriate in technical discussions about design.

Culture

The term 外観 is derived from the kanji 外, meaning 'outside', and 観, meaning 'view' or 'observe'. In Japanese culture, appearance is often linked to social status and personal pride, making the word particularly significant in contexts like fashion or architecture, where aesthetics play a crucial role in societal perception.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 外観 in English?

外観 translates to 'appearance' in English, indicating the visual aspect or look of something.

Q.How do you use 外観 in a sentence?

You can use 外観 in a sentence like, 'この建物の外観はとても美しいです' (The appearance of this building is very beautiful).

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 外観?

A common mistake is using 外観 when you mean 'character' or 'nature'; remember it strictly refers to physical appearance.

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