fat1 ji4忽而
Jyutpingfat1 ji4
Yalefāt yìh
Definition
Suddenly or abruptly.
writtendescriptionsweather
How it's used
Literary in tone, this word is far less common in everyday speech than 突然 or 忽然. It often appears in written narratives or formal descriptions to convey a sense of abrupt, almost poetic change. Using it in casual conversation can make you sound like you are reading from a novel or a formal news report.
Examples
He suddenly stopped walking and gave me a fright.
The weather suddenly turned cold, remember to put on another layer.
Related words
Common phrases
suddenly changing
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe physical accidents or urgent situations where 突然 is the standard choice. It is better suited for shifts in mood, weather, or abstract states rather than sudden events that require immediate reaction.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
