显现 (xiǎn xiàn) — Chinese Word

verb HSK 5

Traditional 顯現

xiǎn xiàn

to appear · to emerge · to manifest · to become visible

Meaning

显现 means to become visible or manifest, describing something that was previously hidden or unclear becoming apparent. It often carries a somewhat formal or literary tone and is used for things gradually appearing or revealing themselves, whether physical objects, abstract qualities, or conditions.

Usage

This word is more formal than simple 出现 and often appears in written language, news reports, or formal speech. It emphasizes the process of becoming visible or clear, and is commonly used to describe phenomena, symptoms, signs, or qualities emerging. Native speakers use it when something materializes or becomes evident over time.

Examples

01
随着时间的推移，问题逐渐显现出来。
Suí zhe shí jiān de tuī yí, wèn tí zhú jiàn xiǎn xiàn chū lái.
As time passed, the problems gradually emerged.
02
她脸上显现出疲惫的神色。
Tā liǎn shàng xiǎn xiàn chū pí bèi de shén sè.
A tired expression appeared on her face.

Characters

Common collocations

显现出
xiǎn xiàn chū
to show, to display (followed by what appears)
逐渐显现
zhú jiàn xiǎn xiàn
to gradually appear/emerge
显现迹象
xiǎn xiàn jì xiàng
to show signs

Antonyms

Origin

Both characters relate to visibility and appearance. 显 originally meant 'clear' or 'obvious,' while 现 means 'to appear' or 'present.' Together they reinforce the meaning of something becoming visible or manifest.