ce2 fung1 soeng1扯風箱扯风箱
Jyutpingce2 fung1 soeng1
Yaleché fūng sēung
Definition
To pull a bellows, or figuratively to gasp for breath and wheeze like a bellows.
- to pull a bellows
- figurativeto wheeze or gasp for breath, as with asthma
colloquialhealthbody
How it's used
Describes the wheezing sound associated with asthma by comparing it to the rhythmic, heavy sound of a traditional blacksmith's bellows. It is primarily used as a vivid, descriptive verb phrase rather than a clinical diagnosis. The imagery focuses on the labored, noisy nature of the breathing process.
Examples
He starts wheezing like a bellows as soon as he runs, it looks really tough.
Related words
Common phrases
like a bellows (wheezing)
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe general heavy breathing after exercise, as it specifically implies a medical or pathological wheezing sound. Using it to describe someone just out of breath from a light jog might sound overly dramatic or mocking.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
