tung1 hei3通氣通气
Jyutpingtung1 hei3
Yaletūng hei
Definition
Open-minded, sensible, tactful, and understanding of situations to avoid awkwardness.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describing someone as通氣 implies they possess a high level of social intelligence and emotional awareness. It is often used to praise someone who knows when to step back or how to handle a delicate situation without being told explicitly. Unlike being merely smart, this word highlights the ability to read the room and act in a way that avoids unnecessary friction.
Examples
He is very sensible; he knows you are busy and won't bother you.
If you are more tactful in how you handle things, everyone will feel more comfortable.
Related words
Common phrases
very sensible and tactful
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of ventilation or air circulation, which is also written as 通氣 in formal contexts. In a social setting, it strictly refers to a person's character and their ability to be tactful.
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.
