daan1 kaau3單靠单靠
Jyutpingdaan1 kaau3
Yaledāan kaau
Definition
To rely solely or simply on.
colloquialdaily actionsother
How it's used
This phrase carries a tone of skepticism or caution, often implying that the subject's strategy is insufficient or risky. It is frequently used in negative constructions to highlight that a single factor is not enough to achieve a goal. While it functions as a verb phrase, it often acts as a pivot point in an argument about resource allocation or effort.
Examples
How can you finish this all by yourself?
We cannot rely solely on luck to win.
Related words
Common phrases
rely solely on oneself
rely solely on hard work
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with 淨係, which simply means 'only'. While 淨係 can be used to mean 'only doing one thing', 單靠 specifically emphasizes the act of 'relying' or 'depending' on something as a foundation.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
