jyun2 zyun3婉轉婉转
Jyutpingjyun2 zyun3
Yaleyún jyun
Definition
Tactful, indirect, or euphemistic in speech or expression.
neutraldescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Focuses on the delivery of a message rather than the content itself, highlighting the speaker's desire to maintain harmony or avoid confrontation. It is frequently used when someone needs to deliver bad news or criticism without being blunt. Unlike being dishonest, it implies a conscious choice to soften the tone for the sake of the listener's feelings.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with being vague or unclear. While it does involve indirectness, the primary goal is politeness or diplomacy, not a lack of clarity or intention to deceive.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
