jat1 si4 zi1 gaan1一時之間一时之间
Jyutpingjat1 si4 zi1 gaan1
Yaleyāt sìh jī gāan
Definition
In a very short moment, usually referring to the present instant.
colloquialtimedaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the inability to process information or react immediately due to a sudden change or lack of preparation. It often appears in negative contexts where someone is struggling to recall a name, find a solution, or accept a surprising piece of news.
Examples
I can't think of how to answer you right now.
He left all of a sudden, and everyone was shocked.
Related words
Common phrases
cannot recall at the moment
cannot accept it all of a sudden
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a long duration or a planned event. It specifically highlights a momentary lapse or a sudden, unexpected shift in circumstances.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
