faai3 lok6快樂快乐
Jyutpingfaai3 lok6
Yalefaai lohk
Definition
Happy, joyful, or excited.
neutralemotion
How it's used
While 快樂 is widely understood, it carries a slightly more formal or literary tone compared to the everyday word 開心. You will frequently see it in set phrases like 生日快樂 or 聖誕快樂, but in casual conversation, native speakers almost always prefer 開心 to describe personal feelings.
Examples
You seem really happy today.
What happened to make you so happy?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use 快樂 to describe a simple, fleeting mood, as it often implies a deeper sense of joy or a state of being. For everyday situations like being happy about a small event, stick to 開心.
Grammar color guide
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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.
