In Chinese culture, there's a well-known tension between the importance of appearance and the wisdom of looking beyond it. On one hand, the famous proverb 人不可貌相 (rén bù kě mào xiàng)—“a person cannot be judged by their appearance”—is taught from a young age. This is the direct equivalent of the English “you can't judge a book by its cover.” It reflects a traditional value of prioritizing a person's inner character (内在, nèizài) and abilities (能力, nénglì) over their superficial looks. On the other hand, in modern society, especially in urban areas and competitive environments, a good 外表 is often seen as important. It relates to the concept of 形象 (xíngxiàng), or one's “public image.” Presenting a neat, professional, and pleasant appearance is considered a sign of self-respect and respect for others. This is particularly true in job interviews, business meetings, and even social situations like blind dates. The rise of the internet slang term 颜值 (yánzhí), or “face value,” highlights the growing emphasis on physical attractiveness in contemporary Chinese culture. So, while traditional wisdom warns against judging by 外表, modern reality often demands that one pay attention to it.
外表 is a common and versatile word used in daily conversation, writing, and formal settings.
Its formality is neutral, making it appropriate for almost any situation, from chatting with friends to writing a formal report.