gok3 cin2擱淺搁浅

Jyutpinggok3 cin2

Yalegok chín

動詞Rare

Definition

To run aground, beach, or stall.

to run aground or beach, referring to boats or large marine animals
figurativeto be put on hold, stall, or get suspended, referring to projects or plans

writtentransportother

How it's used

Beyond its literal meaning of a vessel getting stuck in shallow water, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe plans, projects, or negotiations that have come to a sudden halt. It carries a sense of helplessness, implying that the subject is stuck and cannot progress without external help or a change in circumstances. It is a formal term that is often found in news reports or professional settings rather than casual conversation.

Examples

go2嗰gaa3架syun4船gok3擱cin2淺zo2咗，jiu3要dang2等ciu4潮zoeng3漲sin1先zau2走dak1得。

The ship ran aground and has to wait for the tide to rise before it can leave.

go3個gai3計waak6劃jan1因wai6為mou5冇cin2錢ji4而gok3擱cin2淺zo2咗。

The project has stalled because there is no money.

Common phrases

gok3擱cin2淺喺hai2沙saa1灘

run aground on the beach

gai3計waak6劃gok3擱cin2淺

project stalled

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a common verb for getting stuck in traffic or a crowd, but it is specifically reserved for ships or abstract projects. For everyday objects or people getting stuck, use 卡住 instead.