geng1 dou3 bei6 go1 lung1 dou1 mou5 juk6驚到鼻哥窿都冇肉惊到鼻哥窿都冇肉
Jyutpinggeng1 dou3 bei6 go1 lung1 dou1 mou5 juk6
Yalegēng dou beih gō lūng dōu móuh yuhk
Definition
Absolutely terrified; petrified; scared out of one's wits.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
Visual imagery of the nose contracting during extreme fear creates a vivid, hyperbolic way to describe being petrified. It is specifically reserved for moments of intense shock or fright rather than general anxiety. Using this phrase adds a strong, dramatic flair to a story about a narrow escape or a sudden scare.
Examples
I was absolutely terrified when I saw that giant cockroach.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe mild nervousness or worry, as it implies a level of terror that makes one physically react. It is an idiomatic expression that sounds unnatural if applied to situations that are not genuinely frightening.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
