面

• Pinyin: miàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 面 = pictograph of a human face, with the outline of the head and an eye visible

Meaning

Face; surface; side. Also a measure word for flat objects like mirrors, flags, and walls.

As a noun, refers to a face or a surface/side of an object. As a measure word, used for flat, broad objects: 一面镜子 (a mirror), 一面旗 (a flag), 一面墙 (a wall). Also appears in many compounds: 面前 (in front of), 方面 (aspect).

Examples

1. 墙上挂了一面大镜子。 A large mirror is hanging on the wall.
2. 这个问题有很多面。 This issue has many sides to it.
3. 请看这一面。 Please look at this side.

Usage Guide

Context: description, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这面墙需要重新刷。(This wall needs repainting.)
• 事情要从两面来看。(We need to look at things from both sides.)

Don't Say

• 不要用'面'来量圆形的东西 (Don't use 面 as a measure word for round objects — it's for flat, broad surfaces like walls, flags, and mirrors)

Origin & History

Pictographic character originally depicting a human face in profile, with an eye prominently shown. Extended from 'face' to 'surface' and 'side'.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal