saam1 fan1 zung1 jit6 dou6三分鐘熱度三分钟热度
Jyutpingsaam1 fan1 zung1 jit6 dou6
Yalesāam fān jūng yiht douh
Definition
A fleeting enthusiasm; to lose interest quickly after a brief burst of excitement.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This expression is used to describe someone who lacks perseverance or commitment to a new hobby or task. It carries a slightly critical or teasing tone when directed at someone who frequently abandons their pursuits. It is often used as a predicate adjective or a noun phrase to label a person's behavior.
Examples
He is always fickle with his work, so it is hard for him to achieve anything big.
Related words
Common phrases
always being fickle
fickle again
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal measurement of time, but it is strictly an idiom for lack of persistence. Do not use it to describe actual physical heat or duration of time.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
