明亮 (míngliàng) is an adjective for 'bright' that describes a strong, clear light from lamps, stars, or a radiant appearance (e.g., eyes, smile). Compared to the everyday word 亮 (liàng), which is broader and can mean 'light in color' or 'to show,' 明亮 is more descriptive and literary, emphasizing a shining glow. For abstract 'brightness' in a hopeful sense, Chinese uses 光明 (guāngmíng) instead.