din6 can1電親电亲
Jyutpingdin6 can1
Yaledihn chān
Definition
To get shocked by electricity, or to be attracted to someone by mutual spark.
- to get an electric shock; to be electrocuted
- slangto be drawn to someone; to experience a spark of mutual attraction
colloquialbodyemotion
How it's used
The suffix 親 acts as a resultative complement indicating an accidental or unintended outcome. While it literally refers to physical electrocution, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe being instantly captivated or charmed by someone's appearance or personality. When used in the romantic sense, it implies a sudden, almost jarring attraction that hits you like a shock.
Examples
I accidentally got an electric shock while fixing the wires.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the simple verb 電, which can mean to charge a device or to perm hair. The addition of 親 specifically highlights the involuntary, sudden nature of the event.
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.
