Looking up...
外表上
wàibiǎo shàng
on the surface
外表上，他看起来很强壮，但实际上很虚弱。
On the surface, he looks strong, but in reality, he's weak.
neutral
In terms of outward appearance; superficially.
外表上，这两个城市很相似，但文化完全不同。
On the surface, the two cities look similar, but their cultures are completely different.
外表上，这部电影很普通，但内容非常深刻。
On the surface, the movie seems ordinary, but its content is profound.
Used to describe the superficial or ostensible aspect of something, often implying that the reality may differ.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid literal translation
Do not translate '外表上' as 'outside the surface' or 'on the outside'. The phrase functions as an adverbial modifier meaning 'on the surface' or 'superficially'.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use '外表上' when emphasizing that something is only true in terms of appearance, not in reality. It often introduces a contrast with what follows.
Word Origin
Composed of '外表' (appearance, outward aspect) and '上' (on, in terms of), indicating a focus on the superficial layer of something.
Usage Notes
This phrase is often used to contrast superficial impressions with underlying realities. It is commonly found in descriptive or analytical contexts where the focus is on distinguishing between what is seen and what is true.
Word Breakdown
外表
appearance, outward aspect
noun上
on, in terms of
suffix汉英词典