jiu3 meng6要命
Jyutpingjiu3 meng6
Yaleyiu mehng
Definition
Extremely; awfully; to the highest degree.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Functioning as an intensive complement, this expression is placed after an adjective to emphasize an extreme degree. It carries a slightly dramatic or hyperbolic tone, often used when the speaker feels overwhelmed by a situation. It is essentially the Cantonese equivalent of saying something is "to death" in English.
Examples
It is insanely hot today, I want a cold drink.
Their job is extremely busy, they have no time to rest at all.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe positive states, as it almost exclusively pairs with negative or taxing experiences like being busy, tired, or hot. It is not a direct translation for "very" and sounds unnatural if used to describe something pleasant.
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.
