jat1 zan6 zan6一陣陣一阵阵
Jyutpingjat1 zan6 zan6
Yaleyāt jahn jahn
Definition
Occurring in gusts, bursts, or at intervals.
colloquialdescriptionsnature
How it's used
This reduplicated form emphasizes the intermittent and recurring nature of a sensation or action. It is most commonly used for sensory experiences like smells, sounds, or gusts of wind, but it can also describe sporadic physical symptoms or behaviors. Unlike simple repetition, it implies a distinct pause or gap between each occurrence.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 一陣, which means a short while or a moment. Remember that the reduplication is essential to convey the meaning of intermittent intervals rather than a single duration of time.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
