haam3 geng1喊驚喊惊
Jyutpinghaam3 geng1
Yalehaam gēng
Definition
To perform a Taoist ritual to call back the soul of a frightened person.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Refers to a specific folk practice rooted in traditional Chinese beliefs regarding the soul. While modern medical professionals would attribute the child's behavior to shock or trauma, this ritual remains a culturally significant way for families to seek comfort and closure. It is often performed by elderly relatives or specialized practitioners who use simple household items like rice or clothing belonging to the person.
Examples
The child has been crying all night, should we take him to perform the soul-calling ritual?
Related words
Common phrases
take someone to perform the soul-calling ritual
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply crying out of fear, which is just 喊. 喊驚 specifically denotes the ritualistic act of calling back a lost soul, not the act of screaming itself.
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.
