引人注目

You can use this phrase like an adjective. It often follows words like 非常 (very) or 最 (most). You might say a new building is 引人注目. Or you could say a person's talent is 引人注目. It usually describes the subject directly. You don't 'do' this phrase; something 'is' this phrase. It adds a touch of sophistication to your descriptions.

Use it when discussing fashion or bold design choices. It is perfect for a star athlete's performance in a big game. Use it at a party to describe a guest's stunning outfit. It works well in business when a company's growth is spectacular. Even a bright red car in a sea of grey ones is 引人注目. It's great for anything that breaks the status quo.

Don't use it for things that are intentionally subtle or hidden. If someone is trying to be 'low-key,' this is the wrong word. Avoid using it for the act of 'staring' at someone. It describes the object being looked at, not the person looking. Also, don't use it for non-visual things. You wouldn't use it for a loud sound or a strong smell. Stick to things people can see.

This is a classic 'chengyu' or four-character idiom. These idioms are the gold standard of fluent Chinese. While Chinese culture often prizes modesty, this phrase acknowledges that some things are naturally brilliant. It appears frequently in news headlines and fashion magazines. Using it shows you have moved beyond basic vocabulary. It makes you sound more like a native speaker who appreciates nuance.

You might hear 引人注意 (yǐn rén zhù yì) quite often. That version is more common for 'drawing attention' in a general sense. 引人注目 is specifically about the 'eyes' (目). It feels more visual and a bit more formal. Another related term is 备受瞩目 (bèi shòu zhǔ mù). This means 'receiving much attention' and is often used for celebrities or major global events.