About
唉 is a phono-semantic compound with the mouth radical 口 on the left, anchoring its meaning in vocalizations, and the classical grammatical particle 矣 on the right as the phonetic element. Primarily functioning as an interjection, it represents a prolonged sigh expressing sadness, disappointment, resignation, or sympathy. In spoken use, depending on tone, it can also serve as an affirmative response indicating agreement, acknowledgement, or reluctant yielding. The mouth radical signals that this is a spontaneous emotional sound rather than a structured word with a concrete referent.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
唉，我迟到了。
唉，今天又下雨了。
唉，这个任务太难完成了。
他唉了一声，继续埋头工作。
唉声叹气解决不了任何问题。
她看着成绩单，连连唉叹。
你别总是唉声叹气的，振作起来！
面对这种困境，他也只能无奈地唉叹命运不公。