jik6疫
Jyutpingjik6
Yaleyihk
Definition
Epidemic; infectious disease.
neutralhealth
How it's used
This character is rarely used on its own in modern spoken Cantonese and almost always appears as part of a compound word. It carries a formal or clinical tone, typically appearing in news reports or official health announcements. When discussing health crises, locals prefer using compound terms like 疫情 or 疫症 rather than the single character.
Examples
The epidemic situation is very serious lately, everyone be careful when going out.
Related words
Common phrases
epidemic situation
epidemic prevention
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 疫 with 疾病, but 疫 specifically refers to widespread infectious diseases or epidemics, whereas 疾病 is a general term for any illness or disease.
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.
