sau6 naan6受難受难
Jyutpingsau6 naan6
Yalesauh naahn
Definition
To suffer, experience distress, or go through calamity, usually involuntarily.
writtenother
How it's used
Primarily used in formal or literary contexts to describe suffering from major disasters or persecution. It carries a heavy, serious tone that is rarely applied to minor personal inconveniences or daily struggles. In religious contexts, it is almost exclusively associated with the passion of Christ.
Examples
They suffered in that big fire.
Who wants to suffer for no reason?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for minor discomforts like having a headache or being tired, as it sounds overly dramatic and unnatural. Use 辛苦 or 難受 for general physical or mental distress instead.
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.
