bin3 faa3 mou4 soeng4變化無常变化无常
Jyutpingbin3 faa3 mou4 soeng4
Yalebin fa mòuh sèuhng
Definition
Constantly changing; highly variable and unpredictable.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly negative or weary tone, often used when someone's mood or the environment is frustratingly unstable. While it can describe inanimate things like weather or market trends, it is frequently applied to people who are fickle or unreliable. It implies a lack of consistency that makes it difficult for others to plan or react accordingly.
Examples
The weather is so unpredictable, remember to bring an umbrella.
Their personality is constantly changing, it is very hard to figure them out.
Related words
Common phrases
the weather is unpredictable
fickle personality
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple adjective, but it functions as a descriptive phrase that carries more weight than just saying something is unstable. Avoid using it for minor, expected changes, as it implies a chaotic or erratic nature.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
