àn
adjectiveIntermediate dark
general

Lacking light; not illuminated.

天黑了,外面变得很暗。

It's gotten dark outside as night falls.

💡

Often used to describe a lack of light in a space or environment.

general

Secret or hidden; not openly known.

他们在暗中计划了一场行动。

They secretly planned an operation.

💡

Can also imply secrecy or covert actions.

emotional

Gloomy or pessimistic in mood or outlook.

他最近感到很暗,因为工作压力太大。

He's been feeling gloomy lately due to work stress.

💡

Used to describe a negative emotional state.

Collocations

暗处in the dark暗中secretly暗示hint

Related Phrases

暗中观察phrase
to observe secretly
心情暗淡phrase
to feel gloomy

💡Pro Tip

Literal vs. Figurative Use

'暗' can describe physical darkness or metaphorical secrecy/gloom. Context determines the meaning.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

Always consider the context to determine whether '暗' refers to physical darkness or a figurative meaning.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the character representing a lack of light, often associated with darkness or secrecy.

📝Usage Notes

The word '暗' can be used both literally to describe physical darkness and figuratively to describe secrecy or a gloomy mood.

Word Breakdown

sun
radical
+
sound
radical
+
evening
radical
汉英词典