gan1哏
Jyutpinggan1
Yalegān
Definition
Funny or amusing.
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Often confused with 搞鬼, 哏 specifically describes something that is humorous or amusing, whereas 搞鬼 can also imply something is mischievous or weird. It is frequently used in casual settings to describe jokes, movies, or people who have a good sense of humor. Unlike formal terms for funny, this carries a lighthearted and informal tone.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 哏, which is often used in the context of crosstalk or punchlines. In Cantonese, it is strictly an adjective describing the quality of being funny.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
