gwaai2夬
Jyutpinggwaai2
Yalegwáai
Definition
Decisive; a fork in a road or path.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Used primarily to describe a person who is quick to make decisions and acts without hesitation. It carries a positive connotation of efficiency and clarity of mind. While it appears in classical texts, it remains a recognizable and punchy descriptor in modern spoken Cantonese for someone who avoids procrastination.
Examples
He is very decisive in his work and never drags things out.
Can you be more decisive when making decisions?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 快, which refers to speed in general. While someone who is 夬 is often also 快, the former specifically emphasizes the mental act of choosing or cutting through ambiguity rather than just physical velocity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
