Japanese word

表情

Pronunciation

Romajihyōjō

Meaning

  • nounfacial expression

Example

彼の表情が変わりました。kare no hyō jō ga ka wa ri ma shi ta

His facial expression changed.

Illustration for 表情 (facial expression)

More examples

相手の表情を見て、話し方を変えました。ai te no hyō jō o mi te hana shi kata o ka e ma shi ta

I changed the way I spoke after looking at the other person's expression.

Core concept

Refers to the visible look of a face as it communicates a person's inner state.

Common phrases

  • 表情が変わるhyō jō ga ka wa ru

    one's expression changes

  • 表情が明るいhyō jō ga aka ru i

    have a bright expression

  • 表情が硬いhyō jō ga kata i

    have a serious expression

Similar words

顔つきkaotsuki: The overall look of a person's face, including its shape and expression.
目つきmetsuki: The look in a person's eyes, often showing feelings or attitude.

Definition in Japanese

感情や気分などが表れた顔の様子。kan jō ya ki bun na do ga arawa re ta kao no yō su

Word origin

表情 (hyōjō) is a Sino-Japanese compound of 表 (hyō, "show") and 情 (jō, "emotion"), meaning emotion shown outwardly.

Usage tips

  • In everyday conversation, a small change in 表情 (hyōjō) can make a brief reply seem friendly, serious, or upset.

Opposites

  • 無表情muhyōjōexpressionlessna-adjective

Word lists with this word