外观 wàiguān outward appearance
How to remember 外观: 外 outside + 观 observe = outward appearance.
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How it is used
- 外观 (wàiguān) means outward/exterior appearance, a formal word used for products, buildings, and devices.
- Common collocations: 外观设计 (wàiguān shèjì, exterior/industrial design), 外观精美 (wàiguān jīngměi, exquisite appearance).
- Compare with 外形 (wàixíng) - 外观 covers the full visual impression (color, finish, style), while 外形 is narrower, focused on shape/contour.
- Not used for a person's face or personality - it's reserved for objects and structures.