hou4嚎
Jyutpinghou4
Yalehòuh
Definition
To wail; to cry out or howl loudly and mournfully.
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
Describes a particularly loud, shrill, and often distressing form of crying or screaming. It is rarely used in formal writing and carries a strong sense of annoyance or pity depending on the context. It is frequently paired with the particle 喊 to emphasize the act of crying loudly.
Examples
The kid is wailing there, I wonder what is wrong.
Related words
Common phrases
to wail and cry bitterly
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 叫, which is a neutral term for calling or shouting. 嚎 specifically implies a high level of emotional intensity or pain, making it inappropriate for simple requests or casual shouting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
