gong1 ngai6剛毅刚毅
Jyutpinggong1 ngai6
Yalegōng ngaih
Definition
Resolute, steadfast, and persistent; possessing fortitude and willpower.
writtendescriptionspeople
How it's used
Describes a person who possesses an unyielding and resolute spirit, often implying a sense of inner strength that remains unshaken by external pressure. While it conveys a positive sense of determination, it is a formal term that is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation. You are more likely to encounter this in written descriptions, literary contexts, or when formally praising someone's character.
Examples
He has a very persistent personality and won't give up when encountering difficulties.
Do you think he is persistent enough as a person?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe physical strength or simple stubbornness. It specifically refers to mental fortitude and the ability to persevere through adversity, so using it to describe someone who is just being difficult or pigheaded would be incorrect.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
