ham6 si6憾事
Jyutpingham6 si6
Yalehahm sih
Definition
A regrettable matter; something that causes disappointment or regret.
neutralemotion
How it's used
This term carries a formal and slightly literary weight, often used to reflect on life experiences or major missed opportunities. It is significantly more serious than simply saying something is 唔開心 or 可惜, as it implies a lasting sense of sorrow or unresolved disappointment. You will frequently hear it in reflective conversations or written commentary rather than casual small talk.
Measure word
gin2件gínExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for 'sadness' or 'bad luck', but it specifically refers to a situation or event that causes regret. It is not used to describe a minor annoyance or a simple mistake.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
