hei3汽
Jyutpinghei3
Yalehei
Definition
Steam, vapor, or hot gas containing moisture.
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How it's used
While 汽 refers specifically to steam or vapor, it is rarely used as a standalone noun in modern spoken Cantonese. It is almost always found as part of a compound word like 蒸汽 or 汽水. When describing steam rising from food or a kettle, native speakers often prefer using the word 煙 or 蒸氣 instead.
Measure word
gu2股gúExamples
The water is boiling and a lot of steam is coming out.
Be careful, the steam here is very hot.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse 汽 with 氣. Although they share the same sound, 氣 is the general term for air or gas, whereas 汽 is restricted to water vapor or carbonated drinks.
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.
