线条

• Pinyin: xiàn tiáo
• Hanzi breakdown: 线 = 纟+ 泉 (thread from a source); 条 = 夂 + 木 (slender branch)

Meaning

Line; contour; the outlines or lines that define a shape, form, or figure.

Used in art, architecture, and design to describe the elegance of form. Also applied to body shape in contexts like 线条优美 (graceful figure). Can describe clarity of structure metaphorically.

Examples

1. 这位雕塑家的作品以流畅而有力的线条著称。 This sculptor’s work is known for its smooth, powerful lines.
2. 她的身材线条优美，在舞台上格外动人。 Her figure has beautiful lines, and she looks especially captivating on stage.
3. 这栋建筑的外观线条简洁，充分体现了现代主义风格。 The building’s exterior has clean, simple lines that fully reflect a modernist style.

Usage Guide

Context: art, design, fashion, architecture

Tone: appreciative

Do Say

• 设计师用简洁有力的线条勾勒出建筑的整体结构。(The designer sketched the overall structure of the building with clean, powerful lines.)
• 这辆跑车的线条极为流畅优雅，令人过目难忘。(The lines of this sports car are extremely smooth and elegant — unforgettable.)

Don't Say

• 画一条线条 — 线条 already means 'a line'; just say 画一条线 or 画线

Origin & History

线 (thread/line) + 条 (strip/slender piece) — a thin, drawn line

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal