gwaai3 m4 zi1 dak1怪唔之得
Jyutpinggwaai3 m4 zi1 dak1
Yalegwaai m̀h jī dāk
Definition
No wonder; indicating that something is now understood in light of new information.
colloquialcommunication
How it's used
This expression is a classic example of how Cantonese compresses phrases into a single idiomatic unit. It functions as an adverbial opener for a sentence, often followed by a particle like 啦 or 喎 to emphasize the realization. It is highly conversational and carries a tone of sudden understanding or enlightenment.
Examples
No wonder he is so happy today.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly try to insert a subject before the phrase, but it should always start the sentence as an exclamation of realization. It is also common to confuse it with the more formal written equivalent 怪不得, which sounds unnatural in spoken Cantonese.
Grammar color guide
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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.
