dung6 cit3洞徹洞彻
Jyutpingdung6 cit3
Yaleduhng chit
Definition
To have a deep insight into something; to understand thoroughly.
writtendescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Reserved for formal or literary contexts, this term implies a profound level of clarity that goes beyond simple understanding. It is rarely used in casual daily chatter, often appearing in written analysis, news commentary, or serious discussions about human nature or strategic planning. Using it in a mundane setting can sound overly dramatic or pretentious.
Examples
He saw through the truth of the whole matter at a glance.
Do you have any way to gain deep insight into this complex situation?
Related words
Common phrases
to see through to the truth
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 睇穿, which is the standard colloquial way to say see through someone or something. While 睇穿 is perfectly natural for spotting a lie or a trick, 洞徹 carries a much heavier, intellectual weight.
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.
