kong3閌闶
Jyutpingkong3
Yalekong
Definition
An open space in a building or structure.
writtenplacesdescriptions
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively encountered as part of the compound 閌閬, which describes a sense of vastness or openness in a physical space. It is rarely used as a standalone verb or adjective in modern spoken Cantonese. You will mostly see it in literary descriptions of architecture or grand, empty halls.
Examples
The house is very spacious, it feels like there is an open, airy quality to it.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 闊, which is the common, everyday word for wide or spacious. Using 閌 in casual conversation will sound extremely formal or archaic to most native speakers.
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.
