gwaai3 taam4怪談怪谈
Jyutpinggwaai3 taam4
Yalegwaai tàahm
Definition
Ghost stories or tales of the supernatural that cannot be explained by science.
colloquialother
How it's used
Refers specifically to stories involving the supernatural or unexplained phenomena, often shared to create a sense of mystery or fear. It is frequently associated with urban legends or spooky campfire tales rather than formal folklore. The term carries a slightly sensationalist tone, often used when discussing ghost stories or mysterious events that lack a logical explanation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He loves telling tall tales, scaring the kids until they cry.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 鬼故, which is the more common, everyday term for ghost stories. While 怪談 can include ghost stories, it often implies a broader range of uncanny or bizarre tales that may not strictly involve ghosts.
Grammar color guide
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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.
