daam1 geng1 sau6 paa3擔驚受怕担惊受怕
Jyutpingdaam1 geng1 sau6 paa3
Yaledāam gēng sauh pa
Definition
To feel extremely worried and scared; to live in constant fear.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
This idiom describes a state of prolonged anxiety or living in fear, often due to an uncertain or threatening situation. It carries a heavier emotional weight than simply feeling nervous, implying a sense of vulnerability or impending danger. It is frequently used to describe someone who is constantly on edge or anticipating bad news.
Examples
He is always worried and scared, as if something is about to happen.
Why are you so worried and scared? I am here with you.
Related words
Common phrases
living in fear every single day
living a life full of fear and worry
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe momentary nervousness, such as before a test or a first date, as it implies a deeper, more persistent state of dread. It is not suitable for describing simple excitement or mild apprehension.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
