verb / adjective HSK 5
Traditional 悅
to please · to delight · pleased · happy
Meaning
悦 is a somewhat literary or formal character meaning to please or be pleased. It appears more commonly in compound words than alone in modern speech. The character combines the heart radical (忄) with 兑 (duì), suggesting emotional exchange or fulfillment.
Usage
悦 is more often seen in written Chinese or formal contexts. In everyday speech, native speakers typically use compound words containing 悦 like 喜悦, 愉悦, or 悦耳 rather than 悦 by itself. It carries a refined, elegant tone.
Examples
- 01这首音乐悦耳动听。.This piece of music is pleasant to the ear.
- 02她心中充满喜悦。.Her heart is filled with joy.
Common collocations
- 心悦诚服to be sincerely convinced
- 悦纳to accept gladly
- 和颜悦色pleasant countenance
Antonyms
Origin
The character 悦 consists of the heart radical 忄(xīn) on the left and 兑 (duì, meaning to exchange) on the right, originally suggesting the exchange of pleasant feelings or emotional satisfaction.