ngaan5 ming4 sau2 faai3眼明手快
Jyutpingngaan5 ming4 sau2 faai3
Yalengáahn mìhng sáu faai
Definition
Quick-witted and agile; describing someone with fast reflexes or who is sharp-minded and efficient.
- quick-witted and agile; having fast reflexes and short response time
- sharp-minded and efficient in one's work
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
This idiom highlights a combination of keen observation and immediate physical reaction. It is frequently used to praise someone for preventing an accident, such as catching a falling object or grabbing someone before they trip. Beyond physical reflexes, it also describes someone who is mentally sharp and handles tasks with impressive speed and precision.
Examples
You are really quick and efficient, finishing packing everything so fast.
Common phrases
to have quick reflexes
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being fast. It specifically implies that the person noticed the situation first and acted immediately, rather than just performing a task quickly.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
