ngai6囈呓
Jyutpingngai6
Yalengaih
Definition
To beg, implore, or ask earnestly.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Often used to describe a persistent, slightly annoying, or childish form of pleading. It carries a nuance of pestering someone until they give in, rather than a formal request. It is very common to see it used with the aspect marker 住 to emphasize the ongoing nature of the begging.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 嗌 which means to shout or call out. While both involve vocalizing, 囈 is specifically about the act of pleading or pestering for a favor.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
