jyun2 zyun2宛轉宛转
Jyutpingjyun2 zyun2
Yaleyún jyún
Definition
Tactful, indirect, or roundabout in speech or expression; pleasant and melodious in sound.
- tactful, indirect, or roundabout in speech or expression
- literarymild, sweet, and melodious, especially of a voice or music
neutralcommunicationpeople
How it's used
Refers to a style of communication that prioritizes social harmony and face-saving over bluntness. It is often used to describe someone who avoids giving a direct 'no' or harsh criticism by using softer phrasing or hints. While it implies tact, it can sometimes be perceived as being evasive or beating around the bush depending on the context.
Examples
They speak very indirectly because they don't want to hurt you.
Related words
Common phrases
to speak indirectly
to decline indirectly
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin usage which can sometimes imply a 'winding' or 'tortuous' path, whereas in Cantonese it is almost exclusively used to describe communication style and social tact.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
