ding6 saai3 jing4定曬形定晒形
Jyutpingding6 saai3 jing4
Yaledihng saai yìhng
Definition
To freeze or be completely stunned, either from fear, shock, or spacing out.
colloquialemotionbody
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the physical sensation of being caught off guard or overwhelmed. It implies a total cessation of movement, often used when someone is startled by a sudden event or completely lost in their own thoughts. The inclusion of 曬 emphasizes the completeness of the state, suggesting that the person has become entirely motionless.
Examples
He froze immediately when he saw the big cockroach.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being quiet or calm. It specifically denotes an involuntary, temporary paralysis or a vacant stare caused by shock or intense distraction.
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.
