duk6 po3 zi6 daam2讀破字膽读破字胆
Jyutpingduk6 po3 zi6 daam2
Yaleduhk po jih dáam
Definition
To mispronounce a character, especially by guessing its pronunciation incorrectly from its phonetic component.
colloquialschoolcommunication
How it's used
This expression specifically refers to misreading a character, often due to confusion with a similar-looking component or a common mispronunciation habit. It is a very specific, idiomatic way to point out a mistake in reading aloud. It carries a slightly critical or corrective tone, highlighting that the speaker has failed to identify the correct phonetic or semantic value of the character.
Examples
You mispronounced this character.
He always misreads characters, it is so embarrassing.
Related words
Common phrases
always misreading characters
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general mispronunciation of words, but it is strictly reserved for reading characters incorrectly. Do not use it for mispronouncing a whole word or phrase that does not involve a character reading error.
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.
