joeng6恙
Jyutpingjoeng6
Yaleyeuhng
Definition
Sickness; illness; ailment.
writtenhealth
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively encountered in the formal phrase 抱恙, which serves as a polite way to say someone is sick or unwell. It is rarely used as a standalone noun in spoken Cantonese, where people prefer everyday terms like 病 or 唔舒服. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly literary or like you are reading from a formal announcement.
Examples
He has been feeling unwell lately and needs to take leave to rest.
Have you been feeling sick lately? You look very low on energy.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe common ailments like a cold or headache in daily speech. It is reserved for formal contexts, such as writing a sick leave email or inquiring about someone's health in a respectful, professional manner.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
