ngoi4 joek6 muk6 gai1呆若木雞呆若木鸡
Jyutpingngoi4 joek6 muk6 gai1
Yalengòih yeuhk muhk gāi
Definition
Dumbstruck; looking dazed, stunned, or paralyzed with fear.
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Originating from the Zhuangzi, this idiom describes a state of being so stunned or surprised that one loses all expression and movement. While it carries a literary weight, it is frequently used in casual speech to describe someone who has been caught off guard or is simply zoning out. It emphasizes a complete lack of reaction, similar to a statue.
Examples
He was so shocked by the scene that he stood there dumbstruck.
Related words
Common phrases
shocked into a state of being dumbstruck
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply stupid or slow-witted, as the term specifically highlights a temporary state of shock or blankness rather than a permanent personality trait.
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.
