mou4 ji3 zung1無意中无意中
Jyutpingmou4 ji3 zung1
Yalemòuh yi jūng
Definition
Unintentionally; accidentally.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on actions that happen without prior planning or conscious intent, often implying a sense of surprise or serendipity. It is frequently used when describing encounters with people or discovering information that was not being actively sought. The phrase emphasizes the lack of agency in the outcome, distinguishing it from actions done out of carelessness or negligence.
Examples
I accidentally bumped into an old classmate while walking down the street.
Related words
Common phrases
accidentally discover
accidentally overhear
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe accidents caused by clumsiness or lack of attention, such as dropping a glass or tripping over a rug. For those situations, use 唔小心 instead, as 無意中 implies a lack of intent rather than a lack of care.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
