king2 hak1頃刻顷刻
Jyutpingking2 hak1
Yalekíng hāk
Definition
In an instant; within an extremely short time.
writtentime
How it's used
Literary in nature, this term is primarily found in written Cantonese or dramatic storytelling rather than casual daily speech. It functions as a more evocative and formal alternative to common phrases like 一陣間 or 轉眼間. Using it in everyday conversation can make you sound like you are narrating a movie or reading from a novel.
Examples
He disappeared from sight in an instant.
This heavy rain caused the street to flood in a blink of an eye.
Related words
Common phrases
in the blink of an eye
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a standard adverb used in casual conversation, but it carries a dramatic weight that feels out of place when describing mundane events like waiting for a bus or finishing a meal.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
