刷脸

• Pinyin: shuā liǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 刷 (swipe/scan) + 脸 (face) -> scan one's face.

Meaning

To use facial recognition for access, payment, or identity verification.

It is casual tech shorthand for face-based authentication. It can also raise privacy concerns depending on context.

Examples

1. 进小区现在可以刷脸。 You can now use face recognition to enter the neighbourhood.
2. 超市刷脸支付很方便。 Face recognition payment at the supermarket is really convenient.
3. 刷脸之前要看清隐私提示。 Before using face recognition, check the privacy notice carefully.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, shopping, public services

Tone: practical, modern

Do Say

• 机场可以刷脸过闸。（The airport gate supports face scanning.）
• 刷脸支付前要确认金额。（Confirm the amount before face payment.）

Don't Say

• 忽略隐私和授权问题直接推广刷脸。（Privacy and consent matter.）

Common Mistakes

• Using it for taking a selfie; 刷脸 means face recognition verification.

Origin & History

Modeled after 刷卡, "swipe a card," replacing card with face.

Cultural Context

Era: 2010s-2020s

Generation: Broadly understood

Social background: Urban consumers and service users

Regional notes: Common in Mainland cities with digital payment infrastructure.