jim4 zeon3嚴峻严峻
Jyutpingjim4 zeon3
Yaleyìhm jeun
Definition
Severe, difficult, or grueling.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on situations that are grave, critical, or imposing, often used in formal news reports or serious discussions. While it can describe a difficult challenge, it carries a sense of impending pressure or a lack of room for error that goes beyond simple hardship. It is rarely used to describe personal feelings or minor inconveniences.
Examples
Facing such a difficult environment, they still did not give up.
The economic situation is so grim, are you still thinking of changing jobs?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe personal struggles or small obstacles, as it sounds overly dramatic or stiff in casual conversation. Use 辛苦 or 難搞 instead for everyday difficulties.
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.
