tau4 han4頭痕头痕
Jyutpingtau4 han4
Yaletàuh hàhn
Definition
Troublesome or difficult to solve; causing one to scratch one's head over a hard problem.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Metaphorically describes the mental frustration of facing a complex or annoying situation that lacks an easy solution. It captures the physical sensation of being so stressed or puzzled that you feel like scratching your head in desperation. It is strictly used for abstract problems rather than actual physical itching of the scalp.
Examples
This matter has really got me scratching my head.
Have you thought of a plan yet? I am really struggling with this.
Related words
Common phrases
to be made to feel stressed or puzzled
really struggling with a problem
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe an actual itchy scalp, as that would be confusing and sound unnatural. For a literal itchy head, use 頭皮痕.
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.
