sing1 jam1聲音声音
Jyutpingsing1 jam1
Yalesīng yām
Definition
Sound or noise.
neutralbodydescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to audible phenomena, but in casual conversation, locals often prefer 聲 or 聲浪 when talking about volume or noise levels. Using 聲音 can sometimes sound slightly more formal or descriptive, like when discussing the quality of music or a specific tone. It is rarely used to describe general background clamour, for which 嘈音 is more appropriate.
Measure word
zung3種jungExamples
The noise here is very loud.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 聲音 to describe a person's voice, as that is better expressed simply as 聲 or 聲線. Using 聲音 for a human voice can sound overly clinical or like you are referring to a sound effect rather than a person speaking.
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.
