显现

xiǎnxiàn

appearance

HSK 7

Character Breakdown

Usage and Nuances

The verb "显现" (xiǎnxiàn) means "to become visible or apparent." It often describes something abstract or hidden becoming clear or manifest, such as a problem, truth, or talent. It is more formal and literary than simply "出现" (chūxiàn, to appear).

Common Collocations

  • "显现出来" (to become visible or apparent): used when something hidden or unclear becomes noticeable.
  • "显现" (to fully display without hiding): emphasizes complete manifestation, often of qualities or talents.

Register and Tone

"显现" is typically used in written or formal spoken Chinese, such as news reports, academic contexts, or formal discussions. It is less common in casual conversation.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse "显现" with "出现". While both mean "to appear," "显现" implies a clearer or more evident appearance, often of something abstract or subtle, whereas "出现" is more general and neutral.

Summary

Use "显现" when you want to emphasize that something previously hidden or unclear has become clearly visible or evident, especially in formal or literary contexts.

Example Sentences

问题的根源终于显现出来了。

Wèntí de gēnyuán zhōngyú xiǎnxiàn chūlái le.

The root of the problem has finally become apparent.

随着时间的推移,真相逐渐显现。

Suízhe shíjiān de tuīyí, zhēnxiàng zhújiàn xiǎnxiàn.

As time passes, the truth gradually emerges.

他的才能在这次比赛中显现无遗。

Tā de cáinéng zài zhè cì bǐsài zhōng xiǎnxiàn wú yí.

His talent was fully displayed in this competition.