A1adjective1K

Dark

UK /["/dɑːk/"]/US /["/dɑːrk/"]/

Definition

with no or very little light, especially because it is night

In simple words: Having little or no light; not bright.

Examples

  • The room was dark because the lights were off.
  • She wore a dark dress to the party.
  • He has dark hair and bright blue eyes.
  • It was too dark to see the path ahead.
  • The dark clouds signaled an approaching storm.

Usage notes

Used to describe the absence of light or a mood. In a literal sense, it’s appropriate when discussing lighting, while in a figurative sense, it can convey negativity or sadness, such as in 'dark thoughts.' Avoid using in overly cheerful contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'dark' night with no stars; it's very hard to see anything.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • dim
  • gloomy
  • shadowy
  • murky
  • black

Antonyms

  • light
  • bright
  • clear

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'darkness' as a noun vs 'dark' as an adjective.
  • Using 'dark' to describe colors that are not related to light levels.
  • Overusing in a figurative sense without appropriate context.