haam3喊
Jyutpinghaam3
Yalehaam
Definition
To cry, weep, or shed tears, usually caused by negative emotions.
colloquialemotionbody
How it's used
Refers specifically to the act of shedding tears, whereas the Mandarin word 哭 is often used in formal contexts or written Cantonese. In spoken Cantonese, 喊 is the standard verb for crying, while 喊包 is a common noun used to tease someone who cries easily. It is also frequently used in the phrase 喊出嚟 to emphasize the release of pent up emotions.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin word 喊, which typically means to shout or call out. In Cantonese, the verb for shouting or calling out is 嗌.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
