heoi1吁
Jyutpingheoi1
Yalehēui
Definition
Shh; an exclamation used to demand silence or express disapproval.
colloquialcommunicationparticle
How it's used
Used primarily as an interjection to signal silence or to express a sudden realization. When functioning as a hush command, it is often elongated to emphasize the need for quiet. In the sense of realization, it functions similarly to an 'aha' moment and is usually followed by a comma or a pause in speech.
Examples
Ah, so that's how it is, I thought you had forgotten.
Related words
Common phrases
Shh, be quieter
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literary character 吁 used in formal writing to express sighing or lamentation, as the spoken usage is strictly limited to the two contexts mentioned above.
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.
