jo1喲哟
Jyutpingjo1
Yaleyō
Definition
Oh! (an interjection indicating slight surprise).
colloquialparticlecommunication
How it's used
This interjection is borrowed from Mandarin and is used to express mild surprise or playful teasing. It is often used when noticing something unexpected or slightly out of the ordinary. While common in spoken Cantonese, it carries a slightly more performative or dramatic tone compared to native Cantonese particles like 咦.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often overuse this as a direct translation for any kind of surprise, but it sounds unnatural if used in serious or formal situations. It is best reserved for casual, lighthearted interactions.
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.
