Meaning and Usage
"起哄" (qǐhòng) primarily means to create a noisy disturbance, often by heckling or making a ruckus. It can describe both negative interruptions, such as heckling a speaker, and playful noisy behavior, like children making a fuss while playing.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to describe crowds or groups who collectively cause noise or disruption, whether in protest, teasing, or excitement.
Collocations and Patterns
- 起哄打断 (qǐhòng dǎduàn): heckle and interrupt, often used when someone disrupts a speech or performance.
- 起哄玩耍 (qǐhòng wánshuǎ): noisy playful behavior, usually among children or friends.
- 引起起哄 (yǐnqǐ qǐhòng): to provoke or cause heckling or disturbance.
Nuances
While "起哄" often has a negative connotation related to disruption or heckling, it can also be neutral or even positive when describing lively, playful noise. Context determines whether it is critical or lighthearted.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "起哄" with "哄" alone, which can mean to coax or to lull. "起哄" specifically involves collective noisy disturbance or heckling.