wong4

Jyutpingwong4
Yalewòhng

Definition

The metallic reed of a wind instrument, or a spring coil.

  1. reed of a wind instrument
  2. spring coil
neutralother

How it's used

Refers primarily to mechanical springs or the thin metal reeds found in instruments like the harmonica or saxophone. While it appears in technical contexts, it is rarely used in casual conversation unless discussing specific repairs or mechanical parts. In everyday life, people often use the loanword 彈弓 to refer to a coil spring instead.

Measure word

tiu4tìuh

Examples

The spring in this lock seems to have rusted.
Do you know where I can get the spring replaced?

Common phrases

coil spring
reed

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with 簧片, which specifically refers to the reed of an instrument, whereas 簧 is a broader term that can also mean a mechanical spring. Be careful not to use it interchangeably with 彈弓 in all contexts, as 彈弓 is much more common for everyday objects like pens or toys.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector