zim1 giu3尖叫
Jyutpingzim1 giu3
Yalejīm giu
Definition
To scream or shriek; to make a loud, high-pitched cry out of fear or excitement.
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
尖叫 carries a strong sense of high-pitched, involuntary vocalization caused by intense emotion. While it is used for fear, it is equally common for extreme excitement, such as at a concert or when meeting a celebrity. It is distinct from ordinary shouting or yelling, which are better expressed by 嗌 or 大叫.
Examples
She screamed immediately when she saw the cockroach.
Did you scream really loudly during the concert?
Related words
Common phrases
sound of screaming
Common mistake
Learners often use 尖叫 to mean any kind of loud talking or shouting. Remember that 尖叫 specifically implies a high-pitched, piercing sound, so it is not appropriate for describing someone simply raising their voice to be heard in a noisy room.
Grammar color guide
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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.
