amuse
word
/əmˈjuz/
uh-MYOOZ
/ɐmjˈuːs/
uh-MYOOZ
Definition
To make someone laugh, smile, or feel entertained, usually by telling a joke, showing something funny, or providing enjoyment.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used in semi-formal or neutral contexts. Common with objects like 'amuse someone' or reflexively as 'amuse yourself.' Not as strong as 'entertain.' Can imply light pleasure or distraction, not deep interest.
Spanish: entretener - divertirPortuguese (BR): divertir - entreterPortuguese (PT): divertir - entreterChinese (Simplified): 逗乐 - 娱乐Chinese (Traditional): 逗樂 - 娛樂Hindi: मनोरंजन करना - हँसानाArabic: يُسلّي - يُضحكBengali: মনোরঞ্জন করা - আনন্দ দেওয়াRussian: развлекать - забавлятьJapanese: 楽しませるVietnamese: làm vui - làm ai đó thích thúKorean: 즐겁게 하다 - 웃기다Turkish: eğlendirmek - güldürmekUrdu: محظوظ کرنا - خوش کرناIndonesian: menghibur - membuat senang
Example Sentences
Funny stories always amuse the children.
basic
Can you amuse yourself while I finish my work?
basic
The clown tried to amuse the audience.
basic
He told jokes just to amuse himself during the long meeting.
natural
Little things like watching birds always amuse me.
natural
It doesn't take much to amuse kids—they laugh at anything!
natural