m4 zing1 san4唔精神
Jyutpingm4 zing1 san4
Yalem̀h jīng sàhn
Definition
To look tired, lifeless, or lacking in energy.
colloquialhealthdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the outward appearance or internal state of lacking vitality or alertness. It is frequently used to describe someone who looks like they have not slept enough or are feeling under the weather. Unlike simply saying someone is tired, this phrase emphasizes a lack of focus or a dull, listless demeanor.
Examples
You look tired today, are you sick?
I stayed up all night working, I really feel drained now.
Related words
Common phrases
the whole person looks listless
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 冇精神, which is often used interchangeably but can sometimes imply a more permanent lack of motivation or personality. 唔精神 is usually reserved for a temporary state caused by lack of sleep or illness.
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.
