Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Gloomy, dreary, sombre: Describes an atmosphere, place, or weather that is dark, dim, and depressing, often evoking a sense of melancholy or foreboding.
   • Overcast, murky: Specifically refers to weather or skies that are cloudy, dark, and lacking light.
   • Shadowy, obscure: Describes a place that is deeply shaded, dark, and difficult to see into, creating a sense of mystery or desolation.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Bầu trời trở nên âm u trước cơn bão. (The sky became gloomy before the storm.)
  • Khu rừng già trông thật âm u và tĩnh lặng. (The old forest looked truly sombre and quiet.)
  • Căn phòng không có cửa sổ nên lúc nào cũng âm u. (The room has no windows, so it is always murky.)

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Can describe a mood, situation, or future prospect that is bleak, depressing, or without hope.
  • Tương lai của công ty đó trông thật âm u. (The future of that company looks very bleak.)

Variants and Related Words

• U ám (adj): Gloomy, ominous. Often used interchangeably with "âm u" but can carry a stronger connotation of impending doom or misfortune.
  • Cảm giác u ám bao trùm cả căn nhà. (An ominous feeling enveloped the whole house.)

Synonyms

• Gloomy: Partially or totally dark, especially in a depressing way.
• Dreary: Dull, bleak, and lifeless; depressing.
• Sombre: Dark or dull in colour or tone; gravely serious.
• Murky: Dark and gloomy, especially due to thick mist or cloud.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Âm u, lạnh lẽo: Gloomy and cold. Used to intensify the description of a desolate atmosphere.
  • Những con phố cổ vào đêm đông âm u, lạnh lẽo. (The old streets on a winter night were gloomy and cold.)

adj

1. Gloomy, dreary, sombre