Comparison of "表现" and "体现"

In Chinese, both "表现" and "体现" are related to the concept of manifestation or expression, but they are used in different contexts and convey slightly different nuances.

表现 (biǎoxiàn)

"表现" is a verb or noun that means "to perform" or "performance". It refers to the action or result of expressing oneself or exhibiting certain qualities, behaviors, or abilities.

• For example: She showed excellent performance in the competition. - 她在比赛中表现出色。(Tā zài bǐsài zhōng biǎoxiàn chūsè.)
• For example: His behavior at the meeting was inappropriate. - 他在会议上的表现不恰当。(Tā zài huìyì shàng de biǎoxiàn bù qiàdàng.)

体现 (tǐxiàn)

"体现" is also a verb or noun that means "to embody" or "embodiment". It refers to the representation or realization of certain qualities, values, or ideas in tangible or observable forms.

• For example: This painting embodies the spirit of perseverance. - 这幅画体现了坚韧不拔的精神。(Zhè fú huà tǐxiànle jiānrèn bù bá de jīngshén.)
• For example: The architecture of the building reflects the cultural values of the region. - 这座建筑的设计体现了该地区的文化价值。(Zhè zuò jiànzhù de shèjì tǐxiànle gāi dìqū de wénhuà jiàzhí.)

Main Differences

• Definition: "表现" focuses on individual actions or behaviors, while "体现" emphasizes the representation or realization of certain qualities, values, or ideas.
• Usage: "表现" is used more directly to describe specific actions or performances, while "体现" often describes the broader representation or embodiment of abstract concepts or qualities.