ngau5 dyun6 si1 lin4藕斷絲連藕断丝连
Jyutpingngau5 dyun6 si1 lin4
Yalengáuh dyuhn sī lìhn
Definition
Separated or broken off, yet still tangled and connected in some way.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This idiom describes a situation where a romantic or interpersonal connection persists despite a formal separation. It carries a sense of lingering attachment that prevents a clean break, often implying a lack of resolution or closure. While it originates from the physical properties of a lotus root, it is used exclusively to describe human relationships.
Examples
They are still emotionally entangled even after breaking up.
Are you still having an ambiguous relationship with your ex?
Related words
Common phrases
a relationship that is still lingering
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe physical objects that are partially broken, as it is strictly reserved for abstract interpersonal relationships. It is also not used to describe simple friendship, but rather a complicated, often unwanted or ambiguous, emotional tie.
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.
