Resolved How would you translate 清秀?

Discussion in 'Translator's Corner' started by Eishun, Jan 1, 2020.

  1. Eishun

    Eishun Well-Known Member

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    In Chinese novels, a lot of male characters have 清秀 features.

    But what exactly does it mean?

    According to Google translate, it means delicate. But then Baike's explanation says "beautiful and not vulgar".

    So finally, I went for "refined".

    Or would "delicate" be a better translation?
     
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  2. sumtlman

    sumtlman Active Member

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    Suggestions

    Comely (usually women)
    Too delicate
    Clean-cut (usually men)
    Beauty without vulgarity
     
  3. kkgoh

    kkgoh Well-Known Member

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    "Refined" is a pretty good word to use, since it's often used in describing male appearances. Whether you like it or not, it seems to apply to the modern aesthetic standards (esp Korean) of white bleached male celebrities.
    清 (as a noun) describes something clear colored. Maybe it's me, but I've always drawn parallels to china (the white porcelain pottery, not the country). Wonder if that's where the term started associating itself with.

    "Delicate" seems too effeminate otherwise.

    "Clean cut" is translated as 整洁.
     
    Last edited: Jan 1, 2020
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  4. SilverJoker

    SilverJoker Well-Known Member

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    Pure, unblemished.
     
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  5. Ophis

    Ophis 『God Slayer』 『Dragon God』 『Harem Seeker』

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    "Delicate and pretty" or "attractive".
     
  6. vancenick

    vancenick Well-Known Member

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    If it’s a man something like debonair would work
     
  7. ludagad

    ludagad Addicted to escapist novels

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    Refined and elegant are good. Also it's an honest looking face with attractive features. I really wouldn't use delicate, maybe gentle.
     
  8. pentadrian

    pentadrian Wandering donut

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    Suave or debonair might fit better, but idk if they're different in Chinese
     
  9. Shibb

    Shibb Well-Known Member

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    Imagine your typical Asian boyband face. That's 清秀. Handsome with delicate features?
     
  10. Galooza

    Galooza The One True Walapalooza

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    If they are idols or that type that Shibb mentioned, you might call them photogenic or say they're loved by the camera.