ji1猗
Jyutpingji1
Yaleyī
Definition
An exclamation of praise or admiration, meaning great or wonderful; flourishing or thriving.
- literaryexclamation of praise or admiration
- literaryflourishing, thriving, or lush
writtenemotion
How it's used
This interjection is primarily used in formal or literary contexts to express admiration or surprise, often appearing in classical poetry or elevated prose. It is rarely heard in casual daily speech, where speakers would typically use 嘩 or 哇 instead. Learners should treat it as a stylistic choice for written work rather than a term for conversational fluency.
Examples
Wow, this design is really creative.
My, you look very beautiful today.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the common colloquial exclamation 嘩, which is the standard way to express surprise or praise in spoken Cantonese. Using 猗 in a casual setting will sound unnatural or overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
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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.
