tim3掭
Jyutpingtim3
Yaletim
Definition
To manipulate or fiddle with something.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Used primarily for small, repetitive, or aimless movements with one's fingers, often implying a sense of restlessness or boredom. It is distinct from manipulating something with a clear purpose, as it often suggests the object is being handled unnecessarily or distractedly.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
fiddling with a phone
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the formal word 操作 which implies operating machinery or software with intent. Using 掭 for professional tasks sounds like you are aimlessly playing with the equipment rather than working.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
