dong3 zan1當真当真
Jyutpingdong3 zan1
Yaledong jān
Definition
To take seriously; to believe something to be true.
colloquialcommunicationemotion
How it's used
Often used in the negative form 唔好當真 to warn someone not to be misled by a joke or a casual remark. It carries a sense of caution, implying that the speaker's previous words were not meant to be interpreted as factual or binding. It is frequently paired with particles like 呀 or 㗎 to soften the tone or express disbelief.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 認真, which describes the quality of being serious or diligent. While 認真 describes an attitude or a state of mind, 當真 specifically refers to the act of believing or accepting something as true.
Grammar color guide
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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.
