jau1 min4休眠
Jyutpingjau1 min4
Yaleyāu mìhn
Definition
To lie dormant, hibernate, or enter a state of inactivity.
neutralanimalstechnology
How it's used
While often used for biological hibernation, this term is frequently applied to technology, such as computers or smartphones entering sleep mode. It implies a state of suspended activity rather than total shutdown. In casual conversation, people might prefer using the English loanword sleep or the phrase 瞓覺 when referring to devices.
Examples
Animals go into dormancy during winter.
The computer has entered sleep mode, press the button.
Related words
Common phrases
enter sleep mode
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 休息, which refers to a temporary break or rest for a person. Using 休眠 to describe a person taking a nap sounds unnatural and overly clinical.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
