威风

• Pinyin: wēi fēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 威 = 戌 + 女 (authority); 风 = 风 (wind/style)

Meaning

Imposing manner; impressive power; prestige. As an adjective, awe-inspiring or majestic.

Describes the impressive bearing of someone in authority or a display of power and grandeur. Can be used positively for dignity or negatively for intimidation and showing off.

Examples

1. 将军骑在马上显得威风凛凛。 The general looked imposing on horseback.
2. 他在下属面前总是摆出一副威风的样子。 In front of his subordinates, he always puts on an air of authority.
3. 狮子是草原上最威风的动物。 The lion is the most majestic animal on the grasslands.

Usage Guide

Context: descriptions, military, authority

Tone: impressive

Do Say

• 新娘穿着婚纱显得格外威风。(The bride looked especially magnificent in her wedding dress.)
• 他在球场上威风八面无人能敌。(He dominated the court with an imposing presence.)

Don't Say

• 他威风地帮助老人 — 威风 implies power/majesty, not kindness

Origin & History

威 (power/authority) + 风 (style/manner)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal