土色 (tǔ sè) — ashen; pale (of complexion, like earth color)

Definition

Literally 'earth color' — used to describe a dull, pale-brown or ashen tone, typically of a person's complexion. The second example (deep earth color of soil) is a more literal, descriptive use of the same color sense.

noun

ashenpale (of complexion, like earth color)

Easily confused

上色shàng sèlook-aliketo color, to apply color (to a map, drawing, etc.)

Examples

土色。
Tā xià dé liǎn dōu biàn chéng le tǔ sè.
He was so frightened that his face turned ashen.
土色，。
Zhè piàn tǔ dì shì shēn tǔ sè de, shì hé zhǒng zhuāng jia.
This land is a deep earth color, suitable for growing crops.
土色。
Tā men yòng tǔ sè de tú liào fěn shuā le wài qiáng.
They painted the exterior wall with an earth-colored coating.