攬
laam2
The Cantonese word for "hug" is 攬 (laam2).
攬 is the common verb used to describe the act of hugging. To soften the verb and mean "to give a hug" or "to hug for a bit," you can use the phrase 攬吓.
Meaning: affectionate embrace (noun)
Which one should you use?
緊抱 can be used in formal settings to convey the idea of a close, tight hug. In more formal or literary contexts, the term 擁抱 is used to mean "embrace" or "hug."
How does it change in a sentence?
To indicate a continuous state of hugging or holding someone in an embrace, you can add the aspect particle 住 after the verb, resulting in 攬住.
How do you pronounce it?
laam2
Did you know?
- While 攬 is the standard word for 'hug', it is also used as a verb meaning 'to grab' or 'to snatch' something, such as an object or a deal, in certain colloquial contexts.
- In traditional Cantonese culture, physical displays of affection like 攬 are less common in public than in the West, often being reserved for private spaces or very close family members.
- While 攬 is the standard term, Cantonese speakers often use the English word 'hug' in casual conversation, especially among younger generations in Hong Kong.
Examples in context
- 佢俾咗我一個熱情嘅擁抱。She gave me a warm hug.
Example conversation
Ka Yan and Ka Ming are saying goodbye at the airport.
- 嘉欣 Ka Yan我要走喇，俾我攬下你。ngo5 jiu3 zau2 laa3, bei2 ngo5 laam2 haa5 nei6.I have to go, let me give you a hug.
- 家明 Ka Ming好啊，嘉欣。hou2 aa3, gaa1 han1.Okay, Ka Yan.
- 嘉欣 Ka Yan我會好掛住你。ngo5 wui5 hou2 gwaa3 zyu6 nei6.I will miss you very much.
- 家明 Ka Ming我都會掛住你。ngo5 dou1 wui5 gwaa3 zyu6 nei6.I will miss you too.
