wu1 jin1烏煙乌烟
Jyutpingwu1 jin1
Yalewū yīn
Definition
Black smoke.
colloquialnature
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the visual presence of thick, dark, and often polluting smoke. It is frequently paired with 瘴氣 to form the idiom 烏煙瘴氣, which describes a place that is not only physically polluted but also chaotic, corrupt, or morally unpleasant.
Examples
Black smoke is pouring out from that factory over there.
Related words
Common phrases
foul atmosphere; chaotic and corrupt environment
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe steam or light mist, as it specifically implies soot or dark combustion byproducts. It is rarely used as a standalone noun in casual conversation without a descriptive verb or the extended idiom.
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.
