haang4 hoi1 haang4 maai4行開行埋行开行埋
Jyutpinghaang4 hoi1 haang4 maai4
Yalehàahng hōi hàahng màaih
Definition
To walk or move around, especially when busy or running errands.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Describes a state of being busy with various tasks that require moving between different locations. It implies a sense of restless activity or being occupied with errands rather than just walking for exercise. The phrase is often used to explain why someone is not sitting still or why they are unavailable to talk.
Examples
He is always pacing back and forth, I do not know what he is doing.
Do you need to go back and forth to help out?
Common phrases
very busy running back and forth
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 行開, which can simply mean to step away for a moment. Adding the reduplicated 埋 emphasizes the repetitive, back and forth nature of the movement.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
