nim6 zi1 zoi6 zi1念茲在茲念兹在兹
Jyutpingnim6 zi1 zoi6 zi1
Yalenihm jī joih jī
Definition
To keep thinking about something; to bear in mind constantly.
writtenothercommunication
How it's used
This is a formal idiom that carries a literary weight, often appearing in written contexts or formal speeches rather than casual daily chat. Using it in a relaxed setting might sound overly dramatic or pretentious. It implies a sense of persistent concern or deep attachment to a specific goal or memory.
Examples
He has been thinking about that matter constantly.
Are you still thinking about that opportunity?
Related words
Common phrases
always keeping in mind
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb like 諗, but it is a fixed four-character idiom that cannot be modified with aspect markers like 咗 or 緊. It functions as a set phrase describing a state of mind rather than a simple action.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- 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.
