hei1嘻
Jyutpinghei1
Yalehēi
Definition
Onomatopoeia for the sound of laughter.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively used in reduplicated forms like 笑嘻嘻 to describe a lighthearted, cheerful, or slightly mischievous smile. It captures a softer, more playful sound than the boisterous laughter implied by other characters. It is rarely used as a standalone verb in modern speech.
Examples
He is always smiling happily, looking like he is in a great mood.
Related words
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.
