hei2 nou6 oi1 lok6喜怒哀樂喜怒哀乐
Jyutpinghei2 nou6 oi1 lok6
Yalehéi nouh ōi lohk
Definition
The full range of human emotions, including joy, anger, grief, and happiness.
neutralemotion
How it's used
This idiom functions as a collective noun for the spectrum of human emotional states. It is frequently used in philosophical or reflective contexts when discussing the inevitability of experiencing both positive and negative feelings. Unlike simple words for emotion like 情緒, this term carries a slightly more literary or formal weight despite its common usage in daily speech.
Examples
People have all kinds of emotions, it is normal to feel unhappy sometimes.
Related words
Common phrases
to wear one's emotions on one's sleeve
Common mistake
Avoid using this as a direct synonym for a single specific emotion. It refers to the entire range of feelings rather than a single state like happiness or sadness.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
