顏

Denotes countenance, complexion, or facial expression. It refers to the face as a mirror of internal physiological or emotional states rather than the anatomical surface. This includes:

• Complexion and Color: The hue of the skin as an indicator of health or emotion (e.g., flushing, paling).
• Affect and Disposition: The visible manifestation of mood or attitude; a change in 顏 typically signals a shift in social disposition or emotional reaction.

Contrast with 面 (miàn): While 面 generally refers to the physical plane or anatomical front of the head (e.g., washing the face), 顏 refers to the "look" of the person—their dignity, mood, or physiological state as seen through the skin.

• Variants: Simplified variant U+989C.
• Chronology: In early texts, usage is visceral and descriptive (countenance/color). The later social concept of "face" as prestige or honor should not be projected back onto early usages.

Contains the component 頁 (head), marking its anatomical location.

When a text describes 顏 changing, "color" or "complexion" is often more precise than "face."