dat6 jin4突然
Jyutpingdat6 jin4
Yaledaht yìhn
Definition
Sudden, unexpected, and happening very quickly without warning.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Often used with 之間 to emphasize the abruptness of an event. It functions as an adverbial modifier when placed before a verb, describing the unexpected nature of an action. Unlike formal written Chinese, Cantonese speakers frequently use this to describe personal reactions to surprising news or sudden changes in plans.
Examples
Why did you suddenly stop coming to work?
He suddenly rushed out and scared me to death.
Related words
Common phrases
all of a sudden
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a noun or a verb, as it is strictly an adjective or adverb. Learners sometimes mistakenly use it to mean 'fast' or 'quick', but it specifically refers to the lack of warning rather than the speed of the action itself.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
