mai4 tau4 mai4 nou5迷頭迷腦迷头迷脑
Jyutpingmai4 tau4 mai4 nou5
Yalemàih tàuh màih nóuh
Definition
To immerse oneself deeply in doing something, to the point of neglecting everything else.
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
This expression carries a nuance of being so focused that one loses awareness of the outside world. It is often used to describe someone who is absent-minded or oblivious to their surroundings because they are preoccupied with a single task. Unlike being simply focused, it implies a slight lack of practicality or common sense while in that state.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 迷迷糊糊, which describes being dazed, confused, or lacking clarity of thought. 迷頭迷腦 specifically emphasizes intense concentration or obsession with a task, whereas 迷迷糊糊 suggests a lack of focus or mental sharpness.
Grammar color guide
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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.
