gaau2 tung3絞痛绞痛
Jyutpinggaau2 tung3
Yalegáau tung
Definition
Colic; acute, intense, or cramp-like pain that comes on suddenly.
colloquialhealthbody
How it's used
Focuses on the sensation of internal twisting or sharp, spasmodic contractions rather than a dull ache. It is most frequently associated with gastrointestinal distress or severe abdominal issues. When describing heart conditions, it is almost exclusively used in the compound 心絞痛.
Examples
Their stomach suddenly started cramping really badly.
Did you eat something wrong that caused those cramps?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for superficial pain like a paper cut or a bruise, as it specifically implies a deep, internal, and often rhythmic or intense gripping sensation.
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.
