Light-hearted
/ˌlaɪtˈhɑːrtɪd/
adjectiveB1
Definition
Light-hearted describes a mood, attitude, or event that is happy, relaxed, and without stress or sadness. It is used when someone feels joyful and carefree or when something is meant to be fun and not serious.
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See It in Action
Describing a cheerful or carefree mood or attitude
- •She told a light-hearted story that made everyone smile.
- •His light-hearted jokes helped ease the tension in the room.
- •We had a light-hearted conversation about our favorite movies.
Describing something not serious or formal
- •The party was light-hearted and full of laughter.
- •The movie is a light-hearted comedy, perfect for relaxing.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "light-hearted" like "happy" but with a feeling that your heart feels easy and not heavy with problems
- ✓Picture a bright sunny day where you laugh with friends without any worries
- ✓It's the feeling you get when watching a funny movie or hearing a joke that makes you smile
- ✓Sounds like "light hearted" → imagine your heart is as light as a feather, floating freely without weight
- ✓Remember cartoons or comedies that make you laugh and forget your troubles for a while
- ✓NOT like "serious" (deep or important) but "light-hearted" is easy and fun
- ✓NOT like "sad" or "worried" — it is the opposite, full of joy and calmness
- ✓NOT like "excited" (strong energy), "light-hearted" is calm happiness, gentle and soft
Try Other Words
- •Cheerful: feeling or showing happiness and positivity (Use when emphasizing bright and positive mood)
- •Carefree: without worries or problems (Use when focusing on no stress or responsibility)
- •Playful: full of fun and games (Use when describing fun behavior or mood)
- •Joyful: full of joy or pleasure (Use when emphasizing strong happiness)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "light" (not heavy) + "hearted" (related to heart, feelings)
- •Etymology: English compound word combining "light" meaning not heavy and "hearted" meaning having a heart or feeling
- •Historical development: Used since the 1600s to describe a cheerful and easy mood, contrasting with "heavy-hearted" meaning sad or worried
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to describe moods, conversations, stories, or events that are fun and not serious
- •Key insight: The word creates a picture of a heart that feels light, easy, and free from heavy emotions like sadness or worry
Reflect & Connect
•When do you feel most light-hearted in your daily life? Can you describe a moment when you felt this way?
•How can being light-hearted help people in difficult or serious situations?
Fill in the blanks
1.She told a light-hearted story to ___ the tension in the room and make people laugh.
2.A light-hearted mood usually means people are ___ and not worried about problems.
3.Unlike a serious conversation, a light-hearted talk is ___ and easy-going.
4.Watching a comedy movie is a good way to feel light-hearted because it makes you ___ and smile.
5.People feel light-hearted when they have no ___ or heavy thoughts on their mind.
6.A light-hearted joke is often told ___ to avoid hurting anyone's feelings.
7.When someone is light-hearted, they usually speak in a ___ and cheerful way.