jim1 jim1 jat1 sik1奄奄一息
Jyutpingjim1 jim1 jat1 sik1
Yaleyīm yīm yāt sīk
Definition
On the verge of death; breathing very weakly; at one's last gasp.
writtenhealthdescriptions
How it's used
Describes a state of extreme weakness or near total failure, often used metaphorically for businesses, projects, or economies rather than just living beings. It carries a heavy, dramatic tone that implies the subject is beyond recovery without immediate intervention. While it literally refers to breathing, it is frequently used to describe a situation that is barely hanging on.
Examples
The cat is so sick it's on the verge of death, it's so pitiful.
Do you only feel satisfied when you've driven the company to the brink of collapse?
Related words
Common phrases
a patient on the verge of death
a failing economy
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is just tired or slightly unwell, as it specifically denotes a critical, life-or-death situation. Using it for minor issues sounds overly dramatic and unnatural.
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.
