出面

• Pinyin: chū miàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 出 = 凵 (container) + 屮 (sprout), to go out; 面 = pictograph of a face

Meaning

To come forward; to step in; to represent. To personally handle something or intervene.

Implies someone with authority, connections, or status stepping in to handle a matter, negotiate, or represent others. Often used when someone needs to use their position or influence to resolve a situation.

Examples

1. 这件事太复杂了，还得请领导出面协调。 This matter is too complicated — we need a leader to step in and coordinate.
2. 他出面调解了两家的纠纷。 He came forward to mediate the dispute between the two families.
3. 公司派他出面和客户谈判。 The company sent him to negotiate with the client.

Usage Guide

Context: business, negotiation, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这事得你出面才行。(You need to step in to handle this.)
• 他出面解决了问题。(He came forward and resolved the problem.)

Don't Say

• '出面'通常用于需要权威或身份的情况 (出面 is typically used when authority or status is needed to handle a situation)

Origin & History

Combines 出 (to go out/appear) with 面 (face/surface), meaning to show one's face or come forward personally.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal