gwan2 gaau2 saai3滾攪晒滚搅晒
Jyutpinggwan2 gaau2 saai3
Yalegwán gáau saai
Definition
An expression used when visiting someone's home or receiving help, to apologize for the trouble caused.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This expression is a polite, humble way to acknowledge that your presence or request has caused inconvenience to someone else. It is frequently used when arriving at a friend's home or after someone has gone out of their way to assist you. The phrase functions as a social lubricant to show that you do not take their hospitality or effort for granted.
Examples
Sorry for all the trouble, thanks for helping me move house.
I'm visiting you today, sorry for taking up so much of your time.
Related words
Common phrases
really sorry for the trouble
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal meanings of boiling or stirring. It is strictly a social expression used to express gratitude and apology simultaneously, so using it in a professional or overly formal setting might sound slightly too casual or self-deprecating.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
