侧目而视(側目而視)
侧目而视 (cè mù ér shì) literally means “side eye and look”and expresses “look askance with suspicion or disdain”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships & character.
Also searched as: ce mu er shi, ce mu er shi,侧目而视 meaning, 侧目而视 in english
Pronunciation: cè mù ér shì Literal meaning: Side eye and look
Origin & Usage
Han Dynasty court etiquette manuals first described this technique of looking (视) with eyes turned sideways (侧目) as a way for lower officials to show restrained curiosity or disapproval without direct staring. Tang Dynasty literary works expanded it into a subtle tool for character development, showing skepticism or disdain through described body language. The visual angle perfectly captures the balance between observation and emotional distance.
When to Use
Situation: The conservative members glanced disapprovingly at the newcomer's unconventional attire
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 侧目而视 mean in English?
侧目而视 (cè mù ér shì) literally translates to “Side eye and look”and is used to express “Look askance with suspicion or disdain”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theRelationships & Character category..
When is 侧目而视 used?
Situation: The conservative members glanced disapprovingly at the newcomer's unconventional attire
What is the pinyin for 侧目而视?
The pinyin pronunciation for 侧目而视 is “cè mù ér shì”.