gan2緊紧
Jyutpinggan2
Yalegán
Definition
Urgent, fast, or continuous.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
Using this character to mean fast or urgent is almost exclusively restricted to formal idioms or specific compound words. In everyday speech, it is far more common to use 緊 as a continuous aspect marker or as part of the word 緊要 meaning important. Learners should avoid using it as a standalone adjective for speed, as it will sound unnatural or archaic.
Examples
They are currently in intense preparation.
This matter is very important, do not mess it up.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this usage with the continuous aspect marker 緊, which follows a verb to indicate an ongoing action. Using it as an adjective for speed in casual conversation is a common error for those who over-rely on dictionary definitions of literary characters.
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.
