cyun3 bou6 naan4 hang4寸步難行寸步难行
Jyutpingcyun3 bou6 naan4 hang4
Yalechyun bouh nàahn hàhng
Definition
To find it extremely difficult to take even a single step, physically or metaphorically.
- unable to move a single step due to physical obstacles
- figurativeto be in a very difficult, stagnating situation
neutraldescriptionsother
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used to describe both literal physical obstacles, like extreme weather or crowds, and abstract personal predicaments. It emphasizes a state of total stagnation where progress is completely blocked. It carries a sense of helplessness and frustration that goes beyond simple difficulty.
Examples
When it rains heavily, the road is flooded and it is impossible to walk.
Related words
Common phrases
simply impossible to move
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'tired' or 'slow'. It specifically implies that movement is blocked by external circumstances, not by personal fatigue or lack of motivation.
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.
