aai1唉
Jyutpingaai1
Yaleāai
Definition
An interjection expressing a sigh, sadness, regret, or annoyance.
colloquialemotionparticle
How it's used
This interjection is highly versatile and captures a wide spectrum of negative emotions ranging from mild annoyance to deep sorrow. It is frequently used at the beginning of a sentence to set a somber or frustrated tone for the entire utterance. Unlike some other particles, it stands alone as a complete expression of feeling when someone is disappointed by a situation.
Examples
Sigh, I really can't handle this one this time.
Sigh, why do I have to go to work again?
Related words
Common phrases
to sigh and moan
Common mistake
Avoid confusing this with 哎, which is typically used to express surprise, sudden pain, or to get someone's attention. While 唉 is a long, drawn out sigh of resignation, 哎 is usually sharper and more reactive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
