gei6 daan6忌憚忌惮
Jyutpinggei6 daan6
Yalegeih daahn
Definition
To fear, dread, or have scruples and misgivings.
neutralemotionpeople
How it's used
Carries a formal or slightly literary tone that distinguishes it from more common everyday words like 驚 or 怕. It specifically refers to a sense of restraint or hesitation caused by fear of consequences or social pressure. You will often hear it used in professional or serious contexts rather than casual conversation.
Examples
He has no scruples at all when working, it is hard to collaborate with him.
Why do you have so many reservations about him?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 忌諱, which refers to taboos or things one avoids mentioning due to superstition or social custom. While 忌憚 is about internal hesitation or fear of someone's power, 忌諱 is about external rules or social boundaries.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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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.
