ak1 wan6厄運厄运
Jyutpingak1 wan6
Yaleāk wahn
Definition
Misfortune; an unavoidable, predetermined bad fate.
neutralemotionother
How it's used
Carries a heavy, almost fatalistic tone, suggesting that the negative outcome is predestined or unavoidable. It is rarely used for minor inconveniences like missing a bus, but rather for significant life events or dramatic circumstances. People often pair it with verbs like 逃過 or 擺脫 to emphasize the struggle against an inevitable fate.
Examples
It seems like he cannot escape this misfortune.
Why do you always feel like you have bad luck?
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Avoid using this for everyday bad luck or minor mishaps, as it sounds overly dramatic and literary. For common bad luck, use 唔好彩 or 倒霉 instead.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
