noi6 ngoi6 gaau1 kwan3內外交困内外交困
Jyutpingnoi6 ngoi6 gaau1 kwan3
Yalenoih ngoih gāau kwan
Definition
Beset with troubles both at home and abroad; facing difficulties from within and without.
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How it's used
This is a formal idiom that describes a situation where someone or an organization is struggling with problems from both inside and outside sources simultaneously. While it is a four character idiom, it is frequently used in news reports or serious discussions about business or political crises. It carries a heavy, serious tone and is rarely used to describe minor personal inconveniences.
Examples
The company is facing internal and external troubles right now, it is very hard to handle.
He is facing a dilemma both internally and externally, how exactly is he going to solve it?
Related words
Common phrases
fall into a state of internal and external trouble
the situation is beset by internal and external difficulties
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common daily expression, but it is actually quite formal. Using it to describe a simple bad day or a minor disagreement will sound overly dramatic or unnatural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
