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Definition
Unfamiliar-looking; referring to a person who is a stranger or whom one does not recognize.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the visual aspect of not recognizing someone, making it a natural way to describe an unfamiliar guest or a new colleague. It carries a slightly more casual and observational tone than simply saying someone is a stranger. It is frequently used when someone appears in a familiar environment, like a workplace or a neighborhood, where they do not belong.
Examples
There are so many unfamiliar faces here, I don't know anyone.
If you see someone unfamiliar walking in, remember to ask who they are.
Related words
Common phrases
very unfamiliar looking
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe objects or abstract concepts, as it is strictly reserved for people. It is also not used to describe someone you know but have not seen for a long time, as that would imply they have become a stranger to you, which is not the intended meaning.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
