表情

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 表情 is read as ひょうじょう and is a noun for the facial expression through which joy, sadness, tension, or another feeling becomes visible.
• Basic usage: A change appears in 表情が明るくなる, while practicing a particular expression appears in 悲しい表情を練習する.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• State visible on the face
  • It refers to emotion shown outwardly through the eyes, mouth, and facial muscles rather than to the feeling alone.
• Difference from 顔
  • 顔 denotes the face as a body part, while 表情 is the emotion or attitude momentarily visible on that face.