Definition
哼 (hēng) is a multi‑sense verb that can mean to hum a tune, to moan/groan in pain, or to snort to show contempt — the meaning depends on context. 呻吟 (shēn yín) is a more specific verb for a low, continuous moan of suffering, whereas 哼 is used for any kind of low vocal sound (hum or groan). 呵 (hē) means to exhale onto a surface, not the nasal‑sounding vocalizations of 哼.
verb
to hum (a tune)to groanto moan (in pain)to snort (in contempt or dissatisfaction)
Easily confused
- 横héngsound-alikehorizontal, across, crosswise (adjective/adverb)
- 横héngsound-alikehorizontal
Examples
- 哼。Tā yībiān zǒulù yībiān hēng zhe gē.He hummed a song while walking.
- 哼。Tā téng de zhí hēng.He groaned in pain.
- 哼，。Tā hēng le yì shēng, biǎoshì bùmǎn.He snorted to show dissatisfaction.
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