sing1 sung1惺忪
Jyutpingsing1 sung1
Yalesīng sūng
Definition
Half-awake; sleepy, with eyes not yet fully open and mind not quite clear.
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
This term is almost exclusively used in the specific context of waking up from sleep. It captures the exact moment when someone is physically present but mentally still drifting in a dreamlike state. While it is a formal-sounding word, it is frequently used in casual conversation to describe someone who is clearly not yet alert.
Examples
He just woke up, his eyes are still very bleary.
Related words
Common phrases
sleepy-eyed
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe general confusion or being dazed by something other than sleep. It is not a synonym for being absent-minded or generally slow-witted.
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.
