jan5 hei2引起
Jyutpingjan5 hei2
Yaleyáhn héi
Definition
To give rise to, cause, or lead to.
neutralcommunicationother
How it's used
Used primarily in formal or semi-formal contexts to describe the initiation of a negative or significant reaction. While it functions as a verb, it is rarely used in casual conversation to describe simple physical actions, preferring instead to focus on abstract consequences like attention, controversy, or concern.
Examples
This matter has caused a lot of people to discuss it.
Related words
Common phrases
to attract attention
to spark controversy
to cause panic
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it for simple physical causation where 搞出 or 導致 would be more natural. It is not interchangeable with everyday verbs for making things happen.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.



