Usage of 见面
The verb 见面 (jiàn miàn) means 'to meet' or 'to see each other' and is commonly used when referring to face-to-face meetings. It often implies a planned or arranged meeting rather than a chance encounter.
Common contexts
见面 is frequently used in social and professional settings to talk about meeting friends, colleagues, or acquaintances. It can be used with time expressions (e.g., 明天见面 - meet tomorrow) and places (e.g., 在咖啡馆见面 - meet at the café).
Collocations and patterns
- 见面吧: a polite suggestion to meet.
- 终于见面: expressing relief or happiness about finally meeting.
- 每个月见面一次: describing regular meetings.
Nuances
Using 见面 emphasizes the physical presence of both parties. It differs from 看见 (kàn jiàn), which means 'to see' but not necessarily to meet or interact. Avoid confusing 见面 with 认识 (rènshi), which means 'to know' or 'to be acquainted with.' 见面 focuses on the event of meeting itself.
Tone and register
见面 is neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is a versatile verb for everyday conversation about meetings.