mong4 wan4亡魂
Jyutpingmong4 wan4
Yalemòhng wàhn
Definition
The soul of a deceased person; ghost of the dead.
neutralother
How it's used
This term carries a formal and slightly eerie tone, often appearing in ghost stories, horror films, or discussions about ancestral rituals. Unlike the more generic term 鬼, which can be used playfully or to describe someone mischievous, 亡魂 specifically emphasizes the soul of a person who has passed away. It is rarely used in casual daily chatter unless one is intentionally setting a spooky or respectful atmosphere.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
People died here before, and there are always people saying they see ghosts.
Are you afraid that there are ghosts of the dead wandering around here?
Related words
Common phrases
ghosts wandering
to perform rituals to release the souls of the dead
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe a living person who is acting strangely or being annoying, as 鬼 is the appropriate choice for those contexts. Using 亡魂 to refer to a person who is still alive is nonsensical and potentially offensive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
