1.
complexion; color of one's face; skin color as indicator of health
The color or hue of a person's face or skin, particularly as an indicator of their health or physical condition. Literally 'blood color.'
Literally "blood color" — refers to the color of one's skin as a reflection of health and blood circulation. Good 血色 (a rosy, healthy color) indicates good health, while poor 血色 (paleness) suggests illness or fatigue.
Common collocations
- 血色がいい: to have a healthy complexion; to look well
- 血色が悪い: to look pale; to have a poor complexion
- 血色が戻る: for one's color to return (after illness)
- 血色のいい顔: a healthy-looking face
Usage
Most commonly appears in the set phrases 血色がいい and 血色が悪い. Often used by doctors, family members, or friends commenting on someone's health. It refers specifically to the natural color that comes from blood circulation, not to skin tone in general.