ging1 gaau3驚覺惊觉
Jyutpingging1 gaau3
Yalegīng gaau
Definition
To suddenly realize or become aware of something, especially with surprise or fear.
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
Carries a sense of shock or sudden realization that often leads to anxiety or a feeling of being unsettled. Unlike the neutral 發現, which simply means to discover, this term emphasizes the emotional impact of the realization. It is frequently used when someone discovers a mistake or a dangerous situation that has been ongoing without their knowledge.
Examples
I was walking down the street when I suddenly realized my wallet was missing.
Related words
Common phrases
suddenly realize that it turns out
Common mistake
Avoid using this in positive contexts, such as realizing you won a prize, as it implies a negative or fearful reaction to the discovery.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
