1.
to show up, to make an appearance, to drop by
To attend briefly or make a short visit, often to acknowledge an obligation or maintain relationships.
会議に顔を出してきます。
I'll make an appearance at the meeting.
飲み会に少しだけ顔を出した。
I briefly showed up at the drinking party.
たまには実家に顔を出さないと。
I should show my face at my parents' house once in a while.
2.
to peek out, to appear (literal)
For something to physically emerge or become visible.
雲の間から太陽が顔を出した。
The sun peeked out from between the clouds.
春になって、土の中から芽が顔を出した。
Spring came and sprouts peeked out from the soil.
穴から小さなネズミが顔を出して、すぐに引っ込んだ。
A small mouse peeked out from the hole and quickly pulled back.
STRUCTURE: 顔 (face) + を + 出す (to put out). Literally 'to put out one's face.'
NUANCE (Sense 1): Implies a brief appearance, not staying long. Often used for:
- Social obligations (parties, gatherings)
- Maintaining relationships with minimal effort
- Business networking events
RELATED EXPRESSIONS:
- 顔を見せる (to show one's face) - similar meaning
- 立ち寄る (to drop by, stop by)
- ちょっと寄る (to stop by briefly)
OTHER 顔 EXPRESSIONS:
- 顔が広い: well-connected
- 顔を立てる: to save someone's face
- 顔に出る: to show on one's face (emotions)
Related Words
Related:
顔が広い (well-connected)