皙 (xī) - White & fair complexion

皙Tone 1

xī ｜ 13 strokes ｜ radical:

万响

皙 · xī

White;

fair complexion;

bright;

clear;

also refers to the whiteness of skin.

Whitefair complexionbright

Usage highlights

Fair skinWhite and cleanBright and clearFair complexionClear and bright skinFair

Synonyms

  • 白— white
  • 皓— bright white
  • 皎— bright, clear

Antonyms

  • 黑— black
  • 黝— dark, swarthy

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • Her skin is fair and delicate (白皙的皮肤).
  • The bright moon shines on the snow (皎皙的月光).
  • He has a clear and fair complexion (肤色皙白).
  • Ancient texts describe beautiful women as having fair skin (肌肤皙皙).

Collocations

  • Fair skin(白皙)
  • White and clean(皙白)
  • Bright and clear(皎皙)
  • Fair complexion(肤色皙白)
  • Clear and bright skin(皙洁)
  • Fair-skinned beauty(皙丽)

Idioms

  • Skin as white as snow(肤如凝脂，色如皙玉)
  • Fair complexion and beautiful features(面皙目秀)
  • Bright moon and white snow(月皎皙雪)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Traditionally associated with beauty standards in Chinese culture, where fair skin was considered a mark of beauty and refinement.
  • Often used in classical poetry and literature to describe feminine beauty and purity.
  • In ancient China, fair skin indicated someone from a privileged background who didn't work outdoors.

FAQ