bat1 ging1 bat1 gok3不經不覺不经不觉

Jyutpingbat1 ging1 bat1 gok3

Yalebāt gīng bāt gok

語句

Definition

Unknowingly; without realizing it, especially regarding the passage of time.

colloquialtime

How it's used

Focuses on the subtle, almost imperceptible passage of time or the gradual development of a situation. It is frequently used when reflecting on how quickly a period has elapsed, often carrying a sense of nostalgia or mild surprise. Unlike formal Mandarin expressions, this phrase feels very natural in casual storytelling about life changes.

Examples

bat1不ging1經bat1不gok3覺jau6又gwo3過zo2咗jat1一nin4年，zan1真hai6係faai3快。

Another year has passed before I knew it, it's really fast.

nei5你dei6哋co5坐zo2咗hai2喺dou6度bat1不ging1經bat1不gok3覺sing4成go3個zung1鐘laa1啦。

You guys have been sitting here for a whole hour without even realizing it.

Common phrases

bat1不ging1經bat1不gok3覺gwo3過zo2咗

passed by before one knew it

Common mistake

Avoid using this to describe sudden or dramatic events, as it specifically implies a slow, unnoticed progression. It is strictly for time or gradual processes, not for physical objects or people.