表情

• Reading: ひょうじょう
• Romaji: hyoujou
• Kanji breakdown: 表 (hyou) — surface, express; 情 (jou) — feeling, emotion
• Pronunciation: /çoː.dʑoː/

Meaning

Facial expression; the look on someone's face conveying emotion.

A noun for the expression visible on someone's face. Common expressions: 表情が明るい (hyoujou ga akarui, to have a bright expression), 表情を変える (hyoujou wo kaeru, to change one's expression), 無表情 (muhyoujou, expressionless). Important in Japanese culture where reading facial expressions and atmosphere is a key social skill. Often used in novels, manga, and everyday conversation.

Examples

1. 合格を聞いた彼の表情がぱっと明るくなった。 His face instantly lit up when he heard he passed.
2. 彼女はいつも穏やかな表情をしている。 She always has a calm expression on her face.
3. 悲しいニュースを聞いても表情を変えなかった。 Even after hearing the sad news, he didn't change his expression.

Usage Guide

Context: description, communication, literature

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 表 (hyou, surface/express) and 情 (jou, feeling/emotion). Literally 'the surface of feelings' — emotions as they appear on the face.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal