侧面

cè miàn

lateral side

HSK 6

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"侧面" primarily refers to the lateral or side surface of an object or person. It is often used in physical descriptions, such as architecture or facial profiles.

Figurative Use

Besides the literal meaning, "侧面" can also be used figuratively to indicate an indirect or alternative perspective on a topic or issue.

Common Collocations

  • 侧面观察 (observe from the side): used when describing viewing something from a lateral angle.
  • 侧面反映 (reflect indirectly): used to express that something indirectly shows or reveals a fact.
  • 侧面支持 (side support): refers to support coming from an indirect or secondary source.

Usage Notes

When using "侧面" to describe physical objects, it usually contrasts with (front) or (back). In figurative contexts, it implies looking at something from a different angle, often to gain additional insight. Avoid confusing "侧面" with "方面," which means 'aspect' or 'field' and is more abstract.

Example Sentences

这座建筑的侧面设计非常现代。

Zhè zuò jiànzhù de cèmiàn shèjì fēicháng xiàndài.

The side of this building has a very modern design.

从侧面看,他的脸型更立体。

Cóng cèmiàn kàn, tā de liǎnxíng gèng lìtǐ.

From the side, his face shape looks more three-dimensional.

我们需要从侧面了解这个问题的原因。

Wǒmen xūyào cóng cèmiàn liǎojiě zhège wèntí de yuányīn.

We need to understand the cause of this problem from another perspective.