ngai4 ngai4 fu4危危乎
Jyutpingngai4 ngai4 fu4
Yalengàih ngàih fùh
Definition
Precarious, unstable, or highly dangerous; on the verge of collapse.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This reduplicated adjective carries a vivid sense of teetering on the edge of disaster. It is frequently used to describe physical objects that are poorly balanced or situations, such as job security or health, that lack stability. The repetition of the character creates a rhythmic, descriptive quality that emphasizes the sense of imminent collapse.
Examples
The tool is placed so precariously, it could fall down at any moment.
Related words
Common phrases
tottering and about to fall
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a verb meaning to endanger, but it is strictly an adjective used to describe a state of being. It cannot be used to describe an active threat or a person who is dangerous to others.
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.
