悦耳

Chinese HSK 7-9 Vocabulary Chinese ★★ 2/5 neutral yuè ěr
Pinyin yuè ěr
Hanzi breakdown 悦 = 忄+ 兑 (pleased/happy); 耳 = 耳 (ear)

Meaning

Pleasing to the ear; melodious. Describes sounds that are pleasant, harmonious, and agreeable to listen to.

Often used to describe music, voices, birdsong, or any sound perceived as beautiful. Contrasts with 刺耳 (grating/harsh). Common in literary and descriptive writing.

Examples

  1. 清晨林间传来悦耳的鸟鸣声,令人心旷神怡。 In the early morning, pleasant birdsong drifted through the woods, leaving people refreshed and at ease.
  2. 她的歌声悦耳动人,赢得了全场观众的热烈掌声。 Her singing voice was beautiful and moving, earning warm applause from the entire audience.
  3. 这首钢琴曲旋律悦耳,令人百听不厌。 This piano piece has a pleasing melody—you never get tired of hearing it.

Usage Guide

Context: music, nature, description

Tone: appreciative

Do Say

  • 小提琴独奏的音色格外悦耳,令听众陶醉。(The tone of the violin solo was especially pleasing, enchanting the audience.)
  • 她说话的声音轻柔悦耳,让人感到亲切。(Her speaking voice was gentle and melodious, making people feel at ease.)

Don't Say

  • 悦耳的味道 — 悦耳 is strictly auditory; use 可口 or 鲜美 for taste

Origin & History

悦 (pleased/delighted) + 耳 (ear)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal

Related Phrases

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