hin1 coeng4 gwaa3 tou5牽腸掛肚牵肠挂肚
Jyutpinghin1 coeng4 gwaa3 tou5
Yalehīn chèuhng gwa tóuh
Definition
To be deeply concerned, worried, or anxious about someone or something.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Describes a state of intense, persistent anxiety or emotional attachment towards someone, often a family member or loved one. It implies a sense of being unable to focus on other things because one's thoughts are constantly occupied by the person's well-being. While it is a four character idiom, it is frequently used in casual speech to express genuine, deep-seated concern.
Examples
Her son has gone far away, and she worries about him every single day.
Related words
Common phrases
worrying day and night
in such a worried state
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simple worry, but it carries a much stronger connotation of emotional distress or being unable to let go of a concern. It is not used for trivial matters like forgetting your keys or missing a bus.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
