haai6嗐
Jyutpinghaai6
Yalehaaih
Definition
An exclamation of regret, sighing, or disappointment.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
Expresses a sense of resignation or mild frustration about a past mistake or an unfortunate situation. It is often used at the beginning of a sentence to set a tone of disappointment. While it conveys regret, it is generally less dramatic than a full-blown lament.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Oh well, forget it.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin exclamation 'hai' which can also function as a casual greeting, but in Cantonese, it is strictly an expression of regret or a sigh.
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.
