keoi1 gan2拘謹拘谨
Jyutpingkeoi1 gan2
Yalekēui gán
Definition
Reserved, stiff, or uneasy in the presence of others.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describes a state of being overly self-conscious or stiff in social situations. It implies a lack of ease that prevents someone from acting naturally or speaking freely. It is often used to encourage someone to relax or to describe someone who is naturally shy or formal.
Examples
You don't need to be so reserved, just treat it like your own home.
He was very reserved when he met his partner's parents for the first time.
Related words
Common phrases
behave in a reserved manner
don't be so reserved
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 緊張, which specifically refers to feeling nervous or anxious about an outcome or event. 拘謹 is about a personality trait or a social manner of being overly formal and restricted.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
