噩耗

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 噩耗 (èhào) specifically refers to bad news, especially news of a tragic or unfortunate event such as a death or serious accident. It is a formal and somewhat literary term often used in news reports, announcements, or serious conversations.

Common Contexts

噩耗 is typically used when conveying news that causes shock or sorrow. It is not used for minor bad news but reserved for significant, often tragic information.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 收到噩耗 (shōudào èhào): to receive bad news
  • 噩耗 (chuán lái èhào): bad news arrives or is conveyed
  • 噩耗 (èhào chuán lái): the arrival of bad news

These phrases emphasize the suddenness and impact of the news.

Register and Tone

Using 噩耗 adds a serious and respectful tone to the message. It is more formal than simply saying 消息 (bad news) and is appropriate in written announcements or solemn speech.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 噩耗 with general bad news terms like 消息 or 消息. 噩耗 implies a grave or tragic event, so using it for minor issues can sound exaggerated or inappropriate.

Example Sentences

We just received the bad news that his grandfather passed away.

The bad news arrived, and the whole village fell into grief.

After hearing the bad news, she was completely stunned.