gip3 naan6劫難劫难
Jyutpinggip3 naan6
Yalegip naahn
Definition
A disaster, misfortune, or major ordeal.
neutralemotionother
How it's used
This term carries a heavy, almost fated connotation, often implying a series of unfortunate events that test a person's endurance. It is frequently used in contexts involving significant life struggles or grand-scale catastrophes rather than minor inconveniences. The word suggests that the suffering is unavoidable or part of a larger, difficult destiny.
Examples
He has been through so many ordeals, it's so tragic.
When will this disaster finally come to an end?
Related words
Common phrases
to go through an ordeal
to escape a disaster
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 災難, which is a more general term for natural or man-made disasters. 劫難 is more personal and philosophical, focusing on the ordeal or the 'karmic' weight of the suffering.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
