jap1泣
Jyutpingjap1
Yaleyāp
Definition
To weep or sob silently, or to cry in a low voice.
writtenemotion
How it's used
Unlike the common verb 喊 which covers all forms of crying, 泣 carries a more literary or formal nuance. It specifically describes the act of shedding tears quietly or sobbing without making a loud wailing sound. You will rarely hear it in casual daily conversation, as it is mostly reserved for written descriptions or formal storytelling.
Examples
She is sobbing silently in the room.
Seeing her choke with sobs, everyone felt very sad.
Related words
Common phrases
choked with sobs
Common mistake
Do not use 泣 as a direct replacement for 喊 in everyday speech, as it will sound overly dramatic or archaic. Stick to 喊 when talking about children crying or general emotional outbursts.
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.
