naam4 naam4 zi6 jyu5喃喃自語喃喃自语
Definition
To murmur, mutter, or talk to oneself.
How it's used
This idiom describes the act of muttering or talking to oneself, often implying that the person is lost in thought or perhaps slightly disturbed. While it is a formal four-character idiom, it is frequently used in daily life to describe someone who is not communicating with others but rather processing their own internal monologue aloud. It carries a slightly negative or concerned nuance, as it suggests the person is disconnected from their immediate social environment.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 吟吟沉沉, which is a more colloquial, expressive term for complaining or grumbling under one's breath. While both involve low-volume speech, 喃喃自語 focuses on the act of talking to oneself, whereas 吟吟沉沉 often carries a stronger sense of dissatisfaction or annoyance.
Grammar color guide
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.
