taan3嘆叹
Jyutpingtaan3
Yaletaan
Definition
To enjoy; to indulge oneself, or to live extravagantly.
colloquialdaily actionsemotion
How it's used
Originally a loanword from the English word enjoy, this term has evolved to describe any situation where one is relaxing in comfort or indulging in a luxury. It carries a sense of leisure that borders on being slightly lazy or self-indulgent. It is frequently used to describe activities like sipping coffee in a cafe or lounging at home.
Examples
It's a holiday today, of course I have to find somewhere to enjoy myself.
Related words
Common phrases
to live the life of luxury
to enjoy the air conditioning
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literary character 嘆 meaning to sigh, which is pronounced differently in formal reading but often shares the same character in writing. In casual conversation, the context of relaxation makes the meaning clear.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
