gin2蹇
Definition
Unfortunate, difficult, or limping; also used to describe a donkey or an arrogant attitude.
- literarydifficult; unfortunate; full of setbacks
- literarylame; hobbling; having difficulty walking
- archaicdonkey
- literaryarrogant; proud
How it's used
Refers primarily to an uneven or limping gait, but is also frequently used metaphorically to describe a period of bad luck or a stalled situation. It carries a slightly literary or formal weight compared to common spoken terms like 跛, making it sound more descriptive or dramatic when used in conversation. The sense of being arrogant or dumb is archaic and rarely encountered in modern daily speech.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 跛, which is the standard, neutral way to describe someone who is physically disabled or has a permanent limp. Using 蹇 to describe a person can sound overly formal or even poetic, so it is better reserved for describing the action of limping or a streak of bad luck.
Grammar color guide
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.
