seoi2 wong1水汪
Jyutpingseoi2 wong1
Yaleséui wōng
Definition
Unlikely; having slim chances of success, or impractical.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Describes ideas, plans, or prospects that lack substance and are unlikely to succeed. It carries a sense of skepticism, suggesting that whatever is being discussed is flimsy or built on nothing solid. It is often used to dismiss proposals that seem too good to be true or lack a clear foundation.
Examples
The plan he talked about is very unrealistic, nobody believes it at all.
Do you think there is a chance for this business? I think it is very unlikely.
Related words
Common phrases
very unrealistic
very watery or teary-eyed (distinct from the adjective meaning unrealistic)
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of water, as it is strictly used as an adjective for abstract concepts like hope or plans. It is not used to describe physical objects or people.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
