fan3 m4 zoek6瞓唔著瞓唔着
Jyutpingfan3 m4 zoek6
Yalefan m̀h jeuhk
Definition
Unable to fall asleep; tossing and turning; insomniac.
colloquialdaily actionshealth
How it's used
This phrase is a classic example of the potential complement construction in Cantonese, where 唔 denotes the inability to achieve the result of the verb 瞓. It is used exclusively for the state of failing to drift off, rather than for general insomnia or staying awake on purpose. When someone is physically awake but just lying in bed, this is the most natural way to express that frustration.
Examples
Are you unable to sleep because you are too nervous?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 唔瞓, which means choosing not to sleep or staying up late. 瞓唔著 implies an involuntary state where you want to sleep but cannot.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
