jau4 jyu6 bat1 kyut3猶豫不決犹豫不决
Jyutpingjau4 jyu6 bat1 kyut3
Yaleyàuh yuh bāt kyut
Definition
To hesitate or remain undecided; unable to make up one's mind.
neutraldescriptionsemotion
How it's used
While this is a four character idiom, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to describe someone who cannot make a firm decision. It carries a slightly more formal or emphatic tone compared to the common spoken phrase 揸唔定主意. Using it in conversation often implies a sense of impatience or frustration with the person who is taking too long to decide.
Examples
Why are you still hesitating?
He is always so indecisive, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
to appear indecisive
don't be indecisive
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a verb, but it functions as an adjective. You must use it with a copula like 係 or as a descriptive state, rather than trying to use it as an action verb like 'to hesitate'.
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.
