naan4 nang4 ho2 gwai3難能可貴难能可贵
Jyutpingnaan4 nang4 ho2 gwai3
Yalenàahn nàhng hó gwai
Definition
Rare and precious; highly commendable and remarkable under difficult circumstances.
neutraldescriptionspeople
How it's used
This idiom is used to express high praise for someone's character or a situation that is exceptionally virtuous and hard to find. It carries a formal and slightly literary tone, making it sound more sophisticated than simply saying 好難得. It is frequently used in speeches or formal writing to commend someone's dedication or integrity.
Examples
It is truly remarkable that he is willing to help me despite being so busy.
Related words
Common phrases
the spirit is truly remarkable
extremely rare and precious
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe physical objects or common occurrences, as it is reserved for moral qualities, virtues, or rare positive situations. Using it for something trivial, like finding a cheap lunch, will sound sarcastic or overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
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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.
