pui4 wui4徘徊
Jyutpingpui4 wui4
Yalepùih wùih
Definition
To linger, walk back and forth, or fluctuate.
- to linger; to walk back and forth; to pace to and fro
- figurativeto fluctuate or hover between certain values
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Often implies a sense of hesitation or indecision, suggesting the person is physically moving back and forth because they are unsure of what to do next. While it can describe literal pacing, it is frequently used to describe someone waiting nervously or contemplating a difficult choice.
Examples
He lingered at the door for a long time, as if he didn't dare to go in.
Related words
Common phrases
hesitant and unable to make a decision
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe casual walking or strolling, as it specifically carries the nuance of being stuck in one area or unable to leave. It is not a synonym for simply walking around for exercise or leisure.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
