gwai2 dou1 paa3鬼都怕
Jyutpinggwai2 dou1 paa3
Yalegwái dōu pa
Definition
Extremely terrifying; so scary that even ghosts would be frightened.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This expression uses hyperbole to emphasize extreme fear or an unsettling atmosphere. It functions as an adjective phrase that describes a situation, place, or appearance that is so intense it transcends human experience. It is often used in casual conversation to add a dramatic or humorous flair to a description.
Examples
It is so quiet here at night that even ghosts would be scared.
Related words
Common phrases
frighteningly quiet
terrible enough to scare ghosts
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal ghost stories, as it is almost always used figuratively to describe something unpleasant, ugly, or frighteningly quiet. It is not used to describe actual supernatural encounters.
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.
