jat1 nap1 jat1 dat6一凹一凸
Jyutpingjat1 nap1 jat1 dat6
Yaleyāt nāp yāt daht
Definition
Uneven or bumpy; also describing a couple with opposite but complementary personalities.
- uneven; bumpy; rough
- figurativehaving opposite but complementary personalities
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
Beyond describing physical surfaces, this phrase is frequently used metaphorically to describe people whose personalities or skills complement each other. It implies that where one person lacks, the other provides, creating a balanced whole despite the individual differences. It is a very common way to describe a couple or a business partnership that works well together.
Examples
The road is uneven, be careful when you walk.
Their personalities are complementary, so they actually get along very well.
Related words
Common phrases
complementary personalities
the ground is uneven
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a person who is physically deformed or injured, as it can sound derogatory or insensitive. Stick to using it for inanimate objects or abstract concepts like personality traits.
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.
