kwan3 waak6困惑
Jyutpingkwan3 waak6
Yalekwan waahk
Definition
Perplexed, puzzled, or confused.
neutralemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Expresses a state of mental confusion or being at a loss for an explanation. It is more formal than common spoken expressions like 唔知點算 or 摸唔着頭腦, making it suitable for describing serious situations or complex dilemmas. Using it in casual conversation can sound slightly bookish or dramatic.
Examples
I am very perplexed about this matter and do not know how to handle it.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it for simple ignorance or lack of knowledge, as it specifically implies a state of being troubled by an inability to resolve a contradiction or a confusing situation. It is not a synonym for simply not knowing something.
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.
