haak3 zat6嚇窒吓窒
Jyutpinghaak3 zat6
Yalehaak jaht
Definition
To be taken aback, aghast, or stunned and frozen by a sudden, unexpected event.
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the physical or mental paralysis that follows a sudden shock, rather than just the feeling of fear itself. It implies a temporary inability to react or speak, often used when someone is stunned by unexpected news or a sudden action. It is a very common way to describe being caught off guard in a way that stops you in your tracks.
Examples
He suddenly let out a loud shout, it really took me aback.
Why are you frozen in shock? There is no need to be afraid.
Related words
Common phrases
was taken aback
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 嚇親, which is a more general term for being startled or scared. 嚇窒 specifically highlights the 'frozen' or 'speechless' aspect of the reaction.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
