体现

• Pinyin: tǐ xiàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 体 = 亻 (person) + 本 (root), meaning body; 现 = 王 (jade) + 见 (see), meaning to appear

Meaning

To embody; to reflect; to manifest. Indicates that something abstract is expressed through concrete actions or form.

A formal verb commonly used in written Chinese and speeches. Often describes how abstract concepts like values, spirit, or quality are manifested concretely. Common in news, academic writing, and official discourse.

Examples

1. 这部作品体现了作者的创作风格。 This work reflects the author's creative style.
2. 团队精神体现在每个人的行动中。 Team spirit is embodied in everyone's actions.
3. 这个设计体现了中国传统文化的特色。 This design reflects the characteristics of traditional Chinese culture.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, news, official

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 这项政策体现了政府的重视。(This policy reflects the importance the government places on this.)
• 好的服务体现在细节上。(Good service is reflected in the details.)

Don't Say

• 我体现了一个问题。(Don't use 体现 to mean 'found' or 'discovered' — use 发现 instead. 体现 means to embody or reflect, not to find.)

Origin & History

体 (body/substance) + 现 (to appear/manifest). Literally 'to appear in physical form', meaning to make abstract qualities visible.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal