Meaning and Usage
"可笑" (kěxiào) primarily means "funny" or "ridiculous." It can describe something that causes laughter or something absurd and laughable in a negative sense.
Nuance
When used positively, "可笑" refers to something genuinely humorous or amusing, often in entertainment or casual conversation. When used negatively, it implies that something is laughably absurd or not to be taken seriously, sometimes with a tone of ridicule.
Common Collocations
- 可笑的笑话 (kěxiào de xiàohuà): funny joke
- 可笑的理由 (kěxiào de lǐyóu): ridiculous reason
- 感到可笑 (gǎndào kěxiào): feel amused or find something laughable
Usage Tips
"可笑" is often used in both spoken and written Chinese at an advanced level (HSK 6). It can describe both positive humor and negative absurdity, so context is key. Avoid confusing it with "好笑" which is more neutral and generally positive for "funny." "可笑" can carry a stronger judgmental tone when used negatively.