jiu4 baai2搖擺摇摆
Jyutpingjiu4 baai2
Yaleyìuh báai
Definition
To swing, sway, shake, or rock back and forth.
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Focus on the physical instability or rhythmic motion of an object or body. It is frequently used to describe objects that are loose or poorly secured, such as a wobbly table or a loose tooth. When referring to people, it implies a rhythmic, often dance-like movement rather than just aimless shifting.
Examples
He is swaying along with the music.
The chair is rocking back and forth quite violently.
Related words
Common phrases
to waver or be indecisive
to sway from side to side
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 郁, which is a general term for any movement or twitch. 搖擺 specifically requires a back and forth or side to side motion, whereas 郁 can simply mean changing position or moving a single limb.
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.
