faat3 toi4 wan1發台瘟发台瘟
Jyutpingfaat3 toi4 wan1
Yalefaat tòih wān
Definition
To give a poor performance in a live show due to stage fright or a panic attack.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Originating from Cantonese opera, this term specifically describes the sudden, paralyzing anxiety that causes a performer to blank out or lose their composure mid-performance. It implies a total breakdown of professional delivery rather than just simple nervousness. While it is most commonly applied to actors or musicians, it is also used metaphorically for anyone who freezes up during a high-stakes public presentation.
Examples
He got stage fright as soon as he went on stage and was shaking all over.
What are you afraid of? If you get stage fright, just take a deep breath.
Related words
Common phrases
to forget lines due to stage fright
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general nervousness or being shy. It specifically refers to a performance-related failure occurring in front of an audience, not just feeling anxious before an event starts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
