am3

Jyutpingam3
Yaleam
形容詞Common

Definition

Dim, dark, or gloomy with little light; also secret or concealed.

  1. dim; dark; having little light but still visible
  2. secret; hidden; in the dark
colloquialdescriptions

How it's used

Beyond describing low light levels, this character is frequently used to describe actions done behind the scenes or without public knowledge. It carries a sense of being hidden or covert, often appearing in phrases involving schemes or secret assistance. When used for physical light, it implies a dimness that is still sufficient for basic visibility, rather than total pitch-black darkness.

Examples

The room is very dark, turn on the light.

Related words

Common phrases

to have a secret crush

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 黑色, which refers specifically to the color black. While a dark room might be described as 暗, you would not use it to describe the color of an object unless you are specifically referring to a dark shade or tone.

Grammar color guide

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