gang2 gang2 jyu1 waai4耿耿於懷耿耿于怀
Jyutpinggang2 gang2 jyu1 waai4
Yalegáng gáng yū wàaih
Definition
To brood over something; to be unable to let go of something that upsets you.
neutralemotion
How it's used
This idiom carries a heavy, lingering sense of emotional baggage that is hard to shake off. It is typically used for situations where someone feels slighted, hurt, or unable to move past a negative memory. Unlike simple worry, it implies a persistent internal blockage that prevents the person from returning to a normal state of mind.
Examples
He keeps dwelling on that remark and just cannot let it go.
Related words
Common phrases
to remain fixated on something for a long time
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for general sadness or worry, but it specifically requires a trigger event that the person is fixated on. It is not used for future anxieties or general states of depression.
Grammar color guide
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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.
