wat1 hei3屈氣屈气
Jyutpingwat1 hei3
Yalewāt hei
Definition
To feel stuffy and suffocated, or to feel憋屈 (repressed and frustrated).
- stuffy; suffocating; lacking fresh air
- figurativeto feel pent-up, repressed, or frustrated
colloquialemotionhealth
How it's used
Focuses on the feeling of being trapped or oppressed, either physically in a poorly ventilated space or mentally by suppressed emotions. It carries a strong sense of internal pressure that needs an outlet. When used for emotions, it implies a state of being unable to vent or express oneself freely.
Examples
I felt so suffocated in that room I could barely breathe.
Related words
Common phrases
stifling space
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe the literal act of holding one's breath for swimming or exercise, as it specifically implies a negative, involuntary, or oppressive state of being.
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.
