jyun3 hei3怨氣怨气
Jyutpingjyun3 hei3
Yaleyun hei
Definition
Resentment, grievance, or a latent sentiment of discontent.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This term refers specifically to a lingering, suppressed sense of grievance or resentment that has not yet been fully expressed. It is frequently used in social or political contexts to describe the collective mood of a group that feels ignored or treated unfairly. Unlike simple anger, it implies a heavy, stagnant atmosphere that builds up over time.
Measure word
gu2股gúExamples
He is always venting his discontent, making everyone unhappy.
Are you feeling disgruntled? Why not just talk about it?
Related words
Common phrases
to build up resentment
to vent one's grievances
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general anger or frustration. Remember that it carries a sense of being wronged or oppressed, rather than just being annoyed by a minor inconvenience.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
