Comparison of '显示' and '显得'

In Chinese, both "显示" (xiǎnshì) and "显得" (xiǎnde) are related to the concept of visibility or appearance, but they are used in different contexts and convey different meanings.

显示 (xiǎnshì)

"显示" is a verb that means "to display" or "to show." It is used to describe the action of making something visible or presenting information, often in a literal sense.

• For example: 电子屏幕上显示了时间。- The time is displayed on the electronic screen.
• For example: 这个软件可以显示天气预报。- This software can display weather forecasts.

显得 (xiǎnde)

"显得" is a verb complement used to indicate how something appears or seems to be perceived by others. It implies a subjective evaluation of appearance or impression, often suggesting a contrast between expectation and reality.

• For example: 他穿这件衣服显得很年轻。- He appears very young in this outfit.
• For example: 这个问题显得很复杂。- This problem seems very complicated.

Key Differences

• Function: "显示" is a verb used to describe the action of making something visible or presenting information, while "显得" is a verb complement used to indicate the subjective impression or appearance of something.
• Context: "显示" is used in a more factual or literal context, while "显得" is used to convey subjective evaluation or perception.

Examples

Here are some example sentences illustrating the differences between "显示" and "显得":

• 显示 (xiǎnshì):
  • The time is displayed on the electronic screen. - 电子屏幕上显示了时间。(Diànzǐ píngmù shàng xiǎnshìle shíjiān.)
  • This software can display weather forecasts. - 这个软件可以显示天气预报。(Zhège ruǎnjiàn kěyǐ xiǎnshì tiānqì yùbào.)
• 显得 (xiǎnde):
  • He appears very young in this outfit. - 他穿这件衣服显得很年轻。(Tā chuān zhè jiàn yīfú xiǎnde hěn niánqīng.)
  • This problem seems very complicated. - 这个问题显得很复杂。(Zhège wèntí xiǎnde hěn fùzá.)