gwaan3 zik6躀直
Jyutpinggwaan3 zik6
Yalegwaan jihk
Definition
To fall flat on one's face, or to fail completely and utterly.
- to fall flat on one's face; to trip and fall headlong
- figurativeto fail completely and utterly; to suffer a total failure
colloquialother
How it's used
Originating from the image of a person falling flat on their face, this term describes a sudden and total collapse of a project, relationship, or career. It carries a sense of finality and often implies that the failure was quite public or spectacular. It is much more vivid and informal than standard terms for failure like 失敗.
Examples
His business really failed completely this time.
Do you think his plan will end up in total failure?
Related words
Common phrases
failed completely
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a minor setback or a small mistake. It specifically refers to a catastrophic or total collapse where recovery is difficult or impossible.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
