zoeng3 hei3瘴氣瘴气
Jyutpingzoeng3 hei3
Yalejeung hei
Definition
Miasma; harmful vapors or unhealthy atmosphere.
neutralnaturedescriptions
How it's used
瘴氣 historically refers to the toxic air or vapors believed to cause disease in humid, tropical, or swampy regions. In modern usage, it is often employed metaphorically to describe a stifling, oppressive, or morally corrupt atmosphere within a group or environment. It carries a heavy, ominous tone that implies something invisible but harmful is lingering in the air.
Examples
The forest here is full of miasma, don't just wander in.
Do you feel like there is a sense of miasma in this place?
Related words
Common phrases
miasma fills the air
miasma rising to the sky
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general air pollution or smog, as 瘴氣 carries a specific connotation of ancient, swampy, or supernatural toxicity rather than modern industrial exhaust.
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.
