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Meaning and Context
The mouth is one of the Five Features (五官) in Chinese face reading. It is called the "Output Officer" because it governs both what goes in (food/sustenance) and what comes out (speech/expression).
- Official name: Output Officer (出纳官)
- Age range: Governs fortune from ages 51-60
- Represents: Sustenance, speech, relationships, sensuality
- Ideal characteristics: Well-shaped, rosy lips, neat teeth
Classical Roots
From Shenxiang Quanbian
「口为出纳官，主食禄之厚薄。」
Plain translation
"The mouth is the Output Officer, governing the abundance or scarcity of sustenance." This connects mouth characteristics to material fortune and lifestyle.
Reading Framework
Key aspects when observing the mouth:
- Shape: A well-defined, proportionate mouth indicates good communication
- Lip color: Rosy, healthy lips suggest good vitality and fortune
- Teeth: Neat, white teeth indicate good health and honesty
- Size: Should be proportionate to the face — neither too small nor too large
- Corners: Upturned corners suggest an optimistic nature
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's face reading, the mouth is analyzed for shape, proportion, and condition as indicators of communication style and later-life fortune.
Common Misconceptions
- Mouth size does not directly correlate with talkativeness
- Lip shape preferences vary by culture and are not physiognomy standards
- The mouth's appearance can change with mood, health, and age
FAQ
What do thin lips indicate in face reading?
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Thin lips traditionally suggest a more reserved communication style and potentially careful speech. However, interpretation should consider the overall facial harmony and other features. Thin lips do not indicate negative traits inherently.