dang2 haan4等閒等闲
Jyutpingdang2 haan4
Yaledáng hàahn
Definition
Ordinary or common; easily or frequently occurring.
- ordinary; common; mediocre
- easily; frequently
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Often found in the negative form 唔係等閒, which emphasizes that someone or something is extraordinary or not to be trifled with. It carries a slightly formal or literary weight compared to everyday colloquialisms, making it sound more sophisticated when used in conversation. It frequently appears in set phrases describing people of high status or skill.
Examples
Don't take these small matters to heart so easily.
His ability is not something an ordinary person can compare with.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake it for a simple synonym of 容易, but it carries a nuance of being 'common' or 'ordinary' rather than just 'easy to do'. Using it to describe a simple physical task, like opening a door, would sound unnatural and overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
