m4 ging1 m4 gok3唔經唔覺唔经唔觉
Jyutpingm4 ging1 m4 gok3
Yalem̀h gīng m̀h gok
Definition
Before one realizes it; without noticing how fast time has passed.
colloquialtimedaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the passage of time or the completion of an action that happens so smoothly or naturally that one fails to notice the process. It carries a sense of surprise or reflection regarding how quickly things have changed. While often used for time, it also applies to habits or actions performed absentmindedly.
Examples
Before I knew it, a whole hour had already passed.
Did you finish the whole box of biscuits without even realizing it?
Related words
Common phrases
passed by without noticing
before one knows it
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 唔覺意, which specifically means to do something accidentally or unintentionally. 唔經唔覺 emphasizes the lack of awareness during a duration of time or a gradual process.
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.
