amuse
使用方式
To entertain or provide enjoyment, often by causing laughter or delight.The verb "amuse" is used to describe actions or things that entertain, delight, or cause someone to laugh. For example, "The clown amused the children with his funny antics," indicates that the clown entertained the children, making them laugh through his actions. Similarly, "She likes to amuse herself by reading novels," suggests that reading novels provides her with enjoyment and entertainment."Amuse" can also be used reflexively, as in "He amused himself by solving puzzles," meaning he entertained himself through the activity of solving puzzles. Additionally, it can be used in a more passive sense, such as "The movie was amusing," implying that the movie provided entertainment and was enjoyable to watch.In usage, "amuse" often conveys a sense of light-hearted entertainment, whether through humor, engaging activities, or enjoyable experiences. It can apply to a wide range of contexts, from casual interactions and personal hobbies to professional entertainment and artistic performances.
替代選項
When looking to express the idea of entertaining or delighting someone, consider the following alternatives to "amuse":1. **Entertain**: A broader term that encompasses a wide range of enjoyable activities. Example: "The magician entertained the guests with his tricks."2. **Delight**: Focuses on causing great pleasure or joy. Example: "The surprise party delighted her."3. **Divert**: Emphasizes providing a distraction or shift in focus. Example: "He diverted his attention with a good book."4. **Cheer up**: Informal phrase to uplift someone's spirits. Example: "A funny movie can cheer you up on a bad day."5. **Tickle**: Often used metaphorically to indicate causing amusement. Example: "His jokes always tickle my funny bone."Choosing the right alternative depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey—whether it's broad entertainment, joy, distraction, or light-hearted amusement.
寫作
In formal or academic writing, "amuse" can be used to discuss the role of entertainment in society, literature, or media. For example:- **Literary Analysis**: "The author uses humor to amuse readers while simultaneously critiquing societal norms." Here, "amuse" highlights the dual purpose of entertainment and social commentary.- **Media Studies**: "Television shows aim to amuse their audiences through a combination of humor, drama, and engaging storylines." This sentence explains how media content is designed to entertain viewers.- **Psychological Perspective**: "Engaging in activities that amuse us can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being." This usage emphasizes the health benefits of entertainment.When writing about "amuse," it's beneficial to provide context that explains how amusement is achieved and its impact on the audience or participants. Incorporating examples, such as specific forms of entertainment or cultural practices, can enhance the clarity and depth of the discussion.
日常對話
In everyday conversations, "amuse" is often used to talk about activities or things that make us laugh or feel entertained. For example:- **Describing Entertainment**: "That comedian really knows how to amuse the crowd with his jokes!"- **Personal Enjoyment**: "I find painting to be a great way to amuse myself after a long day at work."- **Light-hearted Situations**: "Watching funny cat videos always amuses me when I'm feeling down."Using "amuse" casually adds a touch of sophistication to your language while conveying the idea of having fun or being entertained. It can also be used humorously or playfully, such as when jokingly saying, "I'm going to amuse myself by trying to bake a cake without a recipe," to indicate taking on a fun challenge.
詞源
The word "amuse" originates from the Old French word "amuser," which initially meant "to divert, entertain, or occupy in play." It is derived from the combination of the prefix "a-" (from Latin) and "muser" (to muse, entertain), reflecting the act of occupying someone's mind in a pleasant way. Over time, the meaning of "amuse" has evolved to primarily denote entertaining or causing laughter and delight.In Middle English, "amuse" retained similar meanings related to entertainment and diversion. The term has consistently been associated with providing pleasure and enjoyment, whether through humor, engaging activities, or other forms of entertainment. Its usage has broadened to include various contexts, from casual social interactions to formal entertainment settings, maintaining its core essence of bringing joy and amusement to others.