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Do you know how to distinguish the Mandarin words "美丽 (mĕilì)" from "漂亮 (piàoliang)?" In this Mandarin language lesson, we will explain them in detail.

Literally, "美丽 (mĕilì)" and "漂亮 (piàoliang)” are synonyms. They both mean something is beautiful or good-looking, but we should also pay attention to their subtle differences.

"美丽" is slightly more formal than "漂亮," and is more frequently used to describe both inner and outer beauty.

Example:

Nǐ jīntiān kànqǐlái hĕn piàoliang.
你  今天   看起来   很     漂亮。    
You look pretty today.

Tā shì gè mĕilì de nǚhái.
她   是 个  美丽 的  女孩。    
She is a beautiful girl.

In addition, "漂亮" can be used as an adverb to mean something is well executed.

Example:

Gàn de piàoliang!
 干   得    漂亮！    
Well done!