jat1 taam4 sei2 seoi2一潭死水
Jyutpingjat1 taam4 sei2 seoi2
Yaleyāt tàahm séi séui
Definition
A pool of stagnant water, or figuratively, a lifeless, stagnant, and inactive situation.
- a pool of stagnant water devoid of life
- figurativea stagnant, lifeless, or inactive situation or environment
colloquialdescriptionsother
How it's used
Used primarily to describe a situation, organization, or atmosphere that lacks vitality, innovation, or movement. It carries a strong negative connotation of boredom and hopelessness. While it can literally refer to water, it is almost exclusively used in a metaphorical sense to critique environments that feel trapped or unchanging.
Examples
This company is like a pool of stagnant water; there is absolutely no progress.
Do you think this industry is a stagnant pool?
Related words
Common phrases
to become a pool of stagnant water
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a person who is simply lazy or tired, as it specifically refers to the state of an environment or a collective situation rather than an individual's personality.
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.
