m4 sik1 lou6唔識路唔识路
Jyutpingm4 sik1 lou6
Yalem̀h sīk louh
Definition
To not know the way or direction; to be lost or unfamiliar with the roads.
colloquialtransportdaily actions
How it's used
This phrase is the standard way to express being lost or unfamiliar with a route in Hong Kong. It functions as a verb phrase and is frequently used to explain why someone is late or needs help with directions. It carries a slightly apologetic or explanatory tone when used to justify a delay.
Examples
I've never been here before, I don't know the way.
Related words
Common phrases
because I don't know the way
completely lost
Common mistake
Learners often try to translate the English concept of being lost by using the word 迷路, which sounds much more dramatic or literary in Cantonese. 唔識路 is the natural, everyday choice for simply not knowing how to get somewhere.
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.
