cung1 hei3充氣充气
Jyutpingcung1 hei3
Yalechūng hei
Definition
To inflate, pump air, or aerate.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Commonly used for anything requiring an air pump, such as bicycle tires, sports balls, or inflatable toys. While it sounds slightly formal in some contexts, it is the standard term used in daily life for the act of inflating objects. It is distinct from 吹氣, which specifically refers to inflating something using one's own breath.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 充氣 for blowing up balloons with your mouth, as that is specifically 吹氣. Using 充氣 implies the use of a tool or machine to force air inside.
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.
