am3 zung1 mo2 sok3暗中摸索
Jyutpingam3 zung1 mo2 sok3
Yaleam jūng mó sok
Definition
To grope in the dark, search about blindly, or try to figure something out by guessing.
neutraldaily actionsother
How it's used
This idiom describes a situation where someone lacks clear guidance or information, forcing them to rely on trial and error. It conveys a sense of uncertainty and the frustration of not having a clear path forward. While it can be used literally for searching in the dark, it is far more common in a metaphorical sense to describe navigating complex or unknown professional or personal situations.
Examples
They have no idea about this matter and can only grope in the dark.
Related words
Common phrases
groping in the dark for the truth
groping in the dark for direction
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal physical groping, which would be better expressed using verbs like 摸 or 搵. Using this idiom to describe a physical search for a lost object in a dark room sounds overly dramatic or literary.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
