西装

• Pinyin: xī zhuāng
• Hanzi breakdown: 西 = pictograph, west/Western; 装 = 衣 (clothing) + 壮, clothing/to dress

Meaning

Western-style suit; business suit.

Refers to the Western-style formal suit typically worn in business and formal occasions. Includes the jacket and matching trousers. Common phrases include 穿西装 (wear a suit), 西装革履 (suit and leather shoes, meaning well-dressed), 一套西装 (a suit). Standard attire for business professionals and formal events.

Examples

1. 面试那天他穿了一套深蓝色的西装，看起来很精神。 He wore a dark blue suit on the interview day and looked very sharp.
2. 他平时都穿得很随意，只有开重要会议才穿西装。 He usually dresses casually and only wears a suit for important meetings.
3. 这套西装是意大利定制的，剪裁非常合身。 This suit was custom-made in Italy with a perfect fit.

Usage Guide

Context: business, formal occasions, fashion

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他西装革履的样子很帅。(He looks handsome in his suit and leather shoes.)
• 正式场合要穿西装。(You need to wear a suit for formal occasions.)

Don't Say

• 西装衣服 — redundant since 西装 already means suit (a type of clothing); just say 西装 or 一套西装

Origin & History

Compound of 西 (Western) + 装 (clothing), meaning Western-style clothing/suit.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal