geng1 zyu6驚住惊住
Jyutpinggeng1 zyu6
Yalegēng jyuh
Definition
To worry; to be anxious or afraid that something might happen.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
Focuses on the state of being anxious or apprehensive about a potential negative outcome. It functions similarly to the English construction "worried that," where the speaker is mentally preoccupied with a specific fear. Unlike the simple verb 驚 which often denotes a sudden feeling of fear or being scared of something, 驚住 implies a lingering, ongoing state of concern.
Examples
I'm worried about being late and getting scolded by the boss.
Related words
Common phrases
worried about making a mistake
worried about others finding out
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 驚, which is a simple transitive verb meaning to be afraid of something. 驚住 is specifically used for ongoing worry or anxiety about a future event or situation, rather than a direct fear of an object or person.
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.
