气派

• Pinyin: qì pai
• Hanzi breakdown: 气 = 气 (air/breath — spirit or bearing); 派 = 氵 + 𠂢 (water + branch — a branch/style)

Meaning

Manner; style; imposing presence; grandeur. Refers to the impressive bearing, style, or appearance of a person, place, or thing.

Can describe both people (有气派 — to have presence/dignity) and things (气派的建筑 — an imposing building). Generally positive, implying dignity, style, and impressive quality. Sometimes used with 大 for emphasis: 大气派 (great grandeur).

Examples

1. 这座新落成的政府大楼气派非凡，彰显着这座城市的现代化发展水平。 The newly completed government building is truly grand, highlighting the city’s modern development.
2. 他穿着一身名牌西装，举手投足间透露出成功人士特有的气派。 Wearing a designer suit, he carries himself with the distinctive presence of a successful person.
3. 虽然店面不大，但装修风格独特，处处体现着主人的品味和气派。 Although the storefront isn’t big, the decor is distinctive and reflects the owner’s taste and sense of style everywhere.

Usage Guide

Context: description, appearance, architecture, personality

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 婚礼现场布置得十分气派，鲜花、灯饰和精美的装饰品营造出了浪漫奢华的氛围。(The wedding venue was decorated very grandly; flowers, lights, and exquisite decorations created a romantic and luxurious atmosphere.)
• 她言谈举止落落大方，自带一种让人敬佩的气派和风度。(Her speech and behaviour are graceful and natural, with an innate dignified manner and bearing that commands admiration.)

Don't Say

• 很气派地走路 — 气派 is not typically used adverbially; use 气派地 only for manner of doing something grand, or use 昂首阔步 for walking proudly

Origin & History

气 (air/spirit) + 派 (manner/style)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal