gwaai1 cyun2乖舛
Jyutpinggwaai1 cyun2
Yalegwāai chyún
Definition
Unfortunate, disagreeable, or full of setbacks and misfortunes.
writtendescriptionsother
How it's used
This term is highly formal and literary, appearing almost exclusively in written texts or formal speech rather than daily conversation. It carries a sense of fate or destiny being against someone, often describing a life path that is full of obstacles or a personality that clashes with others.
Examples
He has been having a run of bad luck lately.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common adjective, but using it in casual conversation will sound unnatural or overly dramatic. It is better to use 唔順利 for bad luck or 難相處 for a difficult personality in everyday settings.
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.
