levity
Meaning: Humour or lack of seriousness, especially in a situation that calls for a more solemn approach. Lightness of manner or treatment.
Levity is almost always used in the context of a serious occasion being interrupted or undermined by humour. It commonly appears in the phrase 'a moment of levity' to describe a brief lightening of mood in an otherwise grave discussion. It can be used approvingly — 'much-needed levity' — or disapprovingly — 'inappropriate levity.' The word is the direct antonym of 'gravity' in its figurative sense.
Examples
- The judge warned counsel that levity would not be tolerated during proceedings. 法官警告律师,在审判过程中不容许轻率行为。El juez advirtió al letrado de que no se toleraría ninguna levedad durante el procedimiento.裁判官は弁護士に対し、審理中に軽率な態度は許さないと警告した。판사는 변호인에게 심리 중 경솔한 태도는 용납하지 않겠다고 경고했다.
- His self-deprecating jokes provided a moment of levity in an otherwise sombre press conference. 他的自嘲式笑话在原本气氛沉重的新闻发布会上提供了片刻轻松。Sus bromas autodespectivas proporcionaron un momento de distensión en una rueda de prensa por lo demás sombría.彼の自虐的なジョークは、重苦しい記者会見にひとときの笑いをもたらした。그의 자조적인 농담은 무겁기만 한 기자회견에 잠시 웃음을 가져다주었다.
- The prime minister's attempt at levity fell flat with an audience still reeling from the announcement. 首相试图活跃气氛的举动在仍对该公告感到震惊的听众面前碰了壁。El intento del primer ministro de aligerar el tono cayó en saco roto ante un público aún conmocionado por el anuncio.首相がユーモアを試みたが、発表にまだ動揺している聴衆には空振りに終わった。총리의 유머 시도는 발표에 아직 충격을 받고 있던 청중에게 전혀 먹히지 않았다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: professional, journalism
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin levitas (lightness), from levis (light in weight). Entered English in the mid-16th century, shifting from a physical to a figurative sense.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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