jat1 hiu3 bat1 tung1一竅不通一窍不通
Jyutpingjat1 hiu3 bat1 tung1
Yaleyāt hiu bāt tūng
Definition
To know absolutely nothing about a particular subject; to be utterly ignorant of something.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Carries a slightly self-deprecating or emphatic tone when describing a total lack of knowledge in a specific field. It is often used to contrast one's expertise in a primary subject with a complete inability to grasp an unrelated area. Unlike simple phrases for not knowing, this idiom implies a total mental block or lack of foundation.
Examples
I really know nothing about fixing computers.
Related words
Common phrases
completely clueless
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a lack of general intelligence, as it specifically refers to a lack of knowledge in a particular domain or subject matter.
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.
