do6 sing3 hei3 tai2惰性氣體惰性气体
Jyutpingdo6 sing3 hei3 tai2
Yaledoh sing hei tái
Definition
Inert gas; noble gas.
neutralother
How it's used
Scientific terminology in Hong Kong often mirrors the English distinction between inert and noble gases. While 惰性氣體 is the traditional term for inert gas, 貴氣體 is increasingly preferred in academic settings to align with the modern chemical definition of noble gases. Using the former is still perfectly acceptable in general conversation or older textbooks.
Examples
Noble gases usually do not react easily with other substances.
Do you know which gases are classified as noble gases?
Related words
Common phrases
chemical property
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with the adjective 懶惰, which describes a person who is lazy. Ensure you do not use 惰性 to describe a person's character, as it is strictly reserved for chemical properties.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
