ngaan5 zaam2 zaam2眼眨眨
Jyutpingngaan5 zaam2 zaam2
Yalengáahn jáam jáam
Definition
To blink repeatedly, especially when confused, hesitant, or unable to answer a question.
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How it's used
This phrase captures a specific moment of hesitation or confusion where someone is physically unable to respond. It is often used to describe a blank stare that occurs when you are caught off guard or do not understand what is happening. Unlike a simple blink, it implies a repetitive, slightly dazed motion.
Examples
After he finished asking me, I could only blink blankly.
Related words
Common phrases
staring blankly at someone
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe the physiological act of blinking in a normal, healthy way, as it specifically carries the connotation of being stunned, confused, or at a loss for words.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
