zeoi2 song3沮喪沮丧
Jyutpingzeoi2 song3
Yalejéui song
Definition
Depressed, dejected, or disheartened due to setbacks.
neutralemotion
How it's used
Used to describe a state of feeling discouraged or down after a setback, rather than a clinical diagnosis of depression. It carries a slightly formal tone compared to everyday expressions like 唔開心 or 冇心機, making it more common in reflective or serious conversations about life events.
Examples
Seeing him so depressed, I don't know how to comfort him.
Don't be so depressed about making a mistake, just be more careful next time.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this to describe being bored or uninterested, but it specifically implies a reaction to failure or disappointment. Use 悶 or 冇癮 instead if you are simply feeling bored.
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.
