ming4冥
Jyutpingming4
Yalemìhng
Definition
Dark, dim, or obscure; also profound or deep.
- dark; dim; obscure
- literaryprofound; deep; abstruse
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This character is rarely used in modern spoken Cantonese to describe physical darkness, as words like 黑 or 暗 are standard. When used, it often carries a literary or poetic weight, or refers to a deep, brooding, and impenetrable quality that goes beyond simple lack of light.
Examples
It is very dark inside here, walk carefully.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in everyday casual conversation to describe a room with the lights off, as it sounds overly dramatic or archaic. Stick to 黑 for simple darkness.
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.
