jyu4 joek3魚躍鱼跃
Jyutpingjyu4 joek3
Yaleyùh yeuk
Definition
To leap like a fish jumping out of water; to make a diving or leaping motion.
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How it's used
This term is primarily used in descriptive or literary contexts rather than daily casual speech. While it describes the physical action of a fish jumping, it is often used metaphorically in idioms like 鯉魚躍龍門 to describe someone achieving a sudden rise in status or success. In everyday conversation, people are much more likely to use the simple verb 跳 to describe the action of jumping.
Examples
The fish is leaping out of the water, it is so beautiful.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this as a general verb for jumping in daily life. It is strictly reserved for the specific motion of a fish or, in formal writing, to describe a sudden, energetic upward movement.
Grammar color guide
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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.
