zoeng2 sing1掌聲掌声
Jyutpingzoeng2 sing1
Yalejéung sīng
Definition
Applause; the sound of clapping.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
While 掌聲 is a noun referring to the sound of clapping, it is almost exclusively used in formal or public contexts like speeches, performances, or ceremonies. In casual, everyday situations where you simply want to say someone is clapping, you would use the verb phrase 拍手 instead. It often appears with verbs like 響起 or 報以 to describe the onset or the act of giving applause.
Measure word
zan6陣janhExamples
The whole audience gave a round of enthusiastic applause.
Related words
Common phrases
warm/enthusiastic applause
thunderous applause
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use 掌聲 as a verb, but it is strictly a noun. You cannot say 我掌聲佢 to mean I applauded him; you must use 拍手 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
