ho4 kei4何其
Jyutpingho4 kei4
Yalehòh kèih
Definition
How; what; how incredibly.
- literaryto inquire about the high degree or intensity of something
- literaryhow; so; what a (expressing exclamation)
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a literary or dramatic flair that is rarely used in casual, everyday speech. It is often found in written essays, formal speeches, or when someone wants to emphasize a strong emotional reaction with a touch of rhetorical weight. Using it in a standard conversation can make you sound like you are reciting a poem or being overly theatrical.
Examples
How innocent they are, why do they have to suffer this?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a standard question word like 幾多, but it is strictly an adverb of degree used for emphasis rather than a literal inquiry about quantity or amount.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
