(ようそう)

ようそう
noun
aspect; appearance; state of affairs
1. aspect; appearance; state of affairs; look
The outward appearance or general condition of a situation, often used when describing how things look or what state they are in. Frequently used in news and formal writing.
(まち)様相(ようそう)一変(いっぺん)した。
The town's appearance completely changed.
事態(じたい)深刻(しんこく)様相(ようそう)(てい)している。
The situation is taking on a serious aspect.
台風(たいふう)()ぎた(あと)被災地(ひさいち)悲惨(ひさん)様相(ようそう)(てい)していた。
After the typhoon passed, the disaster area presented a tragic scene.

A somewhat formal word used to describe the overall look or condition of a situation. Common in news reporting, formal writing, and literary contexts.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 様相(ようそう)(てい)する: to present an appearance; to take on an aspect (set phrase)
  • 様相(ようそう)一変(いっぺん)する: the situation changes completely
  • (あら)たな様相(ようそう): a new aspect
  • (こと)なる様相(ようそう): a different aspect

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 様子(ようす): appearance, state — more conversational and everyday; used for people and situations
  • 局面(きょくめん): phase, aspect — emphasizes a stage or turning point in a developing situation
  • 状況(じょうきょう): situation, circumstances — more neutral and factual; broader in application