dou3 bei3到痺到痹
Jyutpingdou3 bei3
Yaledou bei
Definition
Extremely; to an extreme degree.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This expression acts as an intensifier that follows an adjective to indicate an extreme degree, similar to saying something is "to the point of numbness." It is almost exclusively used with positive or exciting experiences, such as being delicious, funny, or satisfying. Using it with negative adjectives can sound unnatural or sarcastic.
Examples
Do you really think this joke is hilarious?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this with any adjective, but it is idiomatic and sounds best with specific sensory or emotional descriptors like 好食, 好玩, or 好笑. Avoid using it with neutral or formal adjectives.
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.
