About

The word "幽默" is formed by combining the character "幽" (yōu), which conveys meanings like secluded or subtle, with "默" (mò), meaning silent or quiet, to phonetically approximate the English word "humor" while semantically implying a nuanced, subdued type of wit. This term was intentionally coined in the early 20th century as a translation for "humor" by selecting characters that together suggest depth and quiet amusement.

Example Sentences Hide

这个故事很幽默

Zhège gùshì hěn yōumò.

This story is very humorous.

他的演讲充满了幽默

Tā de yǎnjiǎng chōngmǎnle yōumò.

His speech is full of humor.

幽默的语言能让沟通更轻松。

Yōumò de yǔyán néng ràng gōutōng gèng qīngsōng.

Humorous language can make communication more relaxed.

她以幽默的方式化解了尴尬的场面。

Tā yǐ yōumò de fāngshì huàjiěle gāngà de chǎngmiàn.

She resolved the awkward situation in a humorous way.

尽管工作压力很大,但他总能用幽默感感染周围的人。

Jǐnguǎn gōngzuò yālì hěn dà, dàn tā zǒng néng yòng yōumògǎn gǎnrǎn zhōuwéi de rén.

Even though work pressure is high, he can always use his sense of humor to infect those around him.

Word Definition - 幽默

yōu mò (loanword) humor; humorous

Individual Character Details