Definition
唉 (ài) is an interjection that expresses a sigh of regret, disappointment, or resignation — often in response to bad luck or a mishap. Unlike 啊 (ā) for surprise/realization or 哎 (āi) for calling attention, 唉 conveys a heavier, defeated tone. It can also serve as a reply when someone calls you, similar to 'Yes? I'm here.'
interjection
expresses sighregretdisappointmentor resignationused to respond to someone calling youshowing agreement or recognition
Easily confused
- 挨áilook-aliketo suffer, to endure (e.g., a beating, scolding, hardship)
- 爱àisound-aliketo love
- 矣yǐlook-alike(classical particle, sentence-final) indicates a change of state, completion, or new situation (equivalent to modern 了)
- 哎āisound-alike(interjection) hey! (used to call someone's attention)
- 矮ǎisound-alikeshort (in height)
- 挨áisound-aliketo be next to; to be adjacent to
- 癌áisound-alikecancer
Examples
- 唉，。ài, jīntiān zhēn dǎoméi.Oh, what bad luck today.
- 唉，。ài, wǒ wàng le dài qiánbāo.Oh no, I forgot to bring my wallet.
- 唉，。ài, wǒ zài zhèr ne.Yes, I'm right here.
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