精美

• Pinyin: jīng měi
• Hanzi breakdown: 精 = 米 + 青, refined; 美 = 羊 + 大, beautiful (large sheep = good/beautiful)

Meaning

Exquisite; fine; elegant and beautiful. Describes something made with great care and aesthetic appeal.

Used to describe crafted items, artwork, packaging, or designs that combine both quality and beauty. Common collocations include 精美的礼品 (exquisite gift), 精美的图案 (beautiful pattern), and 制作精美 (exquisitely made). Emphasizes both craftsmanship and visual appeal.

Examples

1. 这本画册印刷精美，每一页都是视觉享受。 This art book is beautifully printed; every page is a visual treat.
2. 她收到了一个精美的首饰盒，里面装着一条珍珠项链。 She received an exquisite jewelry box with a pearl necklace inside.
3. 博物馆里陈列着许多精美的古代工艺品，让游客赞叹不已。 The museum displays many exquisite ancient crafts that leave visitors amazed.

Usage Guide

Context: crafts, gifts, art

Tone: appreciative

Do Say

• 包装真精美，舍不得拆开。(The packaging is so exquisite, I can't bear to open it.)
• 这幅画制作精美，价值不菲。(This painting is exquisitely made and quite valuable.)

Don't Say

• 用精美形容自然景观，如'精美的山水' (精美 implies human craftsmanship — for natural beauty use 秀丽 or 壮美)

Origin & History

Compound of 精 (refined, fine) + 美 (beautiful). Together emphasizing both quality and aesthetic beauty.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal