jat1 zuk1 zik1 faat3一觸即發一触即发
Jyutpingjat1 zuk1 zik1 faat3
Yaleyāt jūk jīk faat
Definition
On the verge of breaking out; ready to be triggered at the slightest touch.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is primarily used to describe tense situations where a conflict or disaster is about to break out at any moment. It carries a strong sense of urgency and danger, often appearing in news reports or serious discussions about politics or interpersonal conflicts. It is rarely used to describe positive events.
Examples
They are arguing, and the atmosphere is ready to explode.
The border situation is on the brink of war, and everyone is very worried.
Related words
Common phrases
the situation is on the brink of breaking out
the atmosphere is tense and ready to explode
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe something that happens very quickly, like a fast reaction, but it specifically refers to a state of tension waiting for a trigger, not the speed of an action itself.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
