wu1 jim5污染
Jyutpingwu1 jim5
Yalewū yíhm
Definition
To pollute or contaminate; to harm by introducing harmful or unwanted substances.
neutralnatureother
How it's used
Often used in formal contexts or news reports when discussing environmental issues. While it functions as a verb, it is frequently used as a noun in Cantonese, especially when combined with descriptors like 嚴重 or 厲害. It carries a sense of negative impact on the quality of something previously clean or pure.
Examples
The factory wastewater has polluted the river.
Do you think the air pollution here is serious?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with 污糟, which is an adjective meaning dirty or messy. 污染 refers specifically to the process of contamination or pollution, whereas 污糟 describes the state of being dirty.
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.
