daai6 hoi2 laau4 zam1大海撈針大海捞针
Jyutpingdaai6 hoi2 laau4 zam1
Yaledaaih hói làauh jām
Definition
Extremely difficult to find, like looking for a needle in a haystack.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is used to describe tasks that are practically impossible due to the sheer scale or lack of clues. It carries a sense of frustration or resignation, often used to discourage someone from pursuing a hopeless search. Unlike some idioms that sound formal, this is frequently used in everyday speech to emphasize the futility of an action.
Related words
Common phrases
simply like looking for a needle in a haystack
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
