gaai1 jam1佳音
Jyutpinggaai1 jam1
Yalegāai yām
Definition
Good news or glad tidings, or a Christmas carol.
- good news; glad tidings; a favorable reply
- Christmas carol
writtencommunicationfestival
How it's used
Primarily used in formal or literary contexts, this term often carries a slightly elevated or poetic tone compared to the everyday phrase 好消息. It is frequently associated with religious contexts, specifically referring to Christmas carols or the gospel message. When used in casual conversation, it can sound slightly dramatic or tongue-in-cheek, especially when waiting for a romantic or professional outcome.
Examples
I am waiting for his good news, I hope he will say yes.
Everyone sings Christmas carols during Christmas, the atmosphere is very lively.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, everyday situations like telling a friend about a sale at the supermarket, as it will sound overly formal or archaic. Use 好消息 instead for mundane updates.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
