oi1 hung4 pin3 je5哀鴻遍野哀鸿遍野
Definition
A catastrophe afflicting everyone, leaving victims destitute and in misery.
- figurativea disaster leaving victims destitute and displaced
- figurativea state of widespread misery, desperation, or outcry
How it's used
This idiom carries a heavy, dramatic tone that is typically reserved for describing large scale economic or social crises rather than minor personal inconveniences. It paints a vivid picture of collective suffering, often used in news reports or serious discussions about market crashes or widespread job losses. Because of its literary roots, using it in casual conversation can sound slightly hyperbolic or overly formal.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for being sad or depressed, but it specifically describes a situation where a large group of people is suffering due to an external disaster or systemic failure. It is not used to describe an individual's personal mood.
Grammar color guide
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.
