hou2 hei3好氣好气
Definition
Talkative, loquacious, or having the energy and patience to speak at length.
How it's used
Describes someone who has a lot to say or enjoys chatting, often implying a high level of energy or persistence in conversation. While it can be used neutrally to mean talkative, it frequently carries a slightly exasperated tone when used to describe someone who talks too much or refuses to stop. It is distinct from the phrase 好氣 in the sense of having patience, which is usually found in negative constructions like 冇咁好氣.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the expression 冇咁好氣, which means to not have the patience or energy to deal with someone or something. Using 好氣 in a positive context can sometimes sound like you are complaining about the person's verbosity rather than complimenting their sociability.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
