dai1 mai4低迷
Jyutpingdai1 mai4
Yaledāi màih
Definition
Sluggish, slack, or depressed, especially in reference to the economy or business conditions.
neutralworkmoney
How it's used
Primarily used in formal or journalistic contexts to describe macro-level economic trends or specific market sectors. While it can appear in casual conversation, it carries a slightly serious tone that reflects a sense of stagnation or lack of vitality. It is often paired with nouns like 市道 or 經濟 to pinpoint the scope of the downturn.
Examples
The market has been very sluggish lately, business is hard to do.
With the economy so sluggish, are you still thinking of changing jobs?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a person's mood or energy level, as it is strictly reserved for economic or business performance. For personal low spirits, use 唔開心 or 冇心機 instead.
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.
