mou4 kei4無期无期
Jyutpingmou4 kei4
Yalemòuh kèih
Definition
Indefinite; limitless; having a long way to go before the end or outcome is reached.
colloquialtimedescriptions
How it's used
Often used in the four-character idiom 遙遙無期, this phrase emphasizes a sense of hopelessness or lack of a clear deadline. It is frequently applied to bureaucratic processes, construction projects, or long-term personal goals that seem to drag on indefinitely. Unlike simple expressions of time, it carries a distinct emotional weight of frustration or exhaustion regarding the wait.
Examples
This project is nowhere near finished, who knows when it will end.
Do you think there is still a long way to go for this matter?
Related words
Common phrases
nowhere in sight
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for meaning 'indefinite' in a neutral sense, but it almost always implies a negative or weary tone. Avoid using it for positive events like a holiday or a celebration, as it would sound like you are dreading the wait.
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.
