hei2 zok3 jung6起作用
Jyutpinghei2 zok3 jung6
Yalehéi jok yuhng
Definition
To start working; to take effect or kick in.
colloquialhealthdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the moment an effect begins to manifest, often used for medicine, strategies, or mechanical processes. It implies a transition from a state of inactivity to one of active influence. While it can be used in formal contexts, it is perfectly natural in daily speech when discussing whether a remedy or plan is showing results.
Examples
Have you taken the medicine? Has it started to kick in yet?
This method has finally started to work.
Related words
Common phrases
the medicine kicks in
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean simply to work or function in a general sense, as that is better expressed by 用得 or 運作緊. It specifically highlights the onset of an effect rather than the ongoing state of operation.
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.
