zan3 jam1震音
Jyutpingzan3 jam1
Yalejan yām
Definition
Vibrato or tremolo; a rapid fluctuation of pitch in singing or playing a musical instrument.
neutralother
How it's used
Primarily used in the context of music theory or vocal performance to describe the oscillation of pitch. While it is a technical term, it is commonly used by music students and performers in Hong Kong to critique or praise vocal technique. It specifically refers to the controlled, rhythmic fluctuation rather than an uncontrolled shaking or trembling of the voice.
Examples
Her vibrato is very natural when she sings.
Are you learning the violin, have you practiced vibrato yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid confusing this with 震, which is a general verb for shaking or trembling due to fear or cold. Using 震音 to describe someone whose voice is shaking from nervousness would be incorrect and sound like a musical critique.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
