ho4 wai6何謂何谓
Jyutpingho4 wai6
Yalehòh waih
Definition
To ask the meaning of a concept or a name, often used in rhetorical questions to express indignation or contempt.
writtencommunication
How it's used
Often used in rhetorical questions to express strong disapproval, indignation, or sarcasm. It carries a formal or literary tone that contrasts sharply with the colloquial nature of everyday Cantonese, making it sound particularly biting when used in an argument.
Examples
I really do not understand what fairness is.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, friendly conversation as it sounds overly academic or confrontational. It is not a neutral way to ask for a definition.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
