faat3 maau4發矛发矛
Jyutpingfaat3 maau4
Yalefaat màauh
Definition
To panic or become frantic.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
Describes a sudden state of frantic, disorganized panic where someone loses their composure. It often implies a loss of focus or an inability to think clearly under pressure. The term is highly informal and carries a sense of being flustered or losing one's head in the moment.
Examples
I panicked immediately as soon as I saw the boss walking over.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 驚, which is a general feeling of fear. 發矛 specifically refers to the chaotic, flustered reaction to a situation rather than the emotion of fear itself.
Grammar color guide
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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.
