ting4 zai6 bat1 cin4停滯不前停滞不前
Jyutpingting4 zai6 bat1 cin4
Yaletìhng jaih bāt chìhn
Definition
Stagnant; at a standstill; to make no progress and remain stuck at a certain stage or situation.
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How it's used
This is a formal idiom often used in professional or analytical contexts to describe a lack of growth or development. While it functions as a verb phrase, it carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the subject should be moving forward but is failing to do so. It is frequently applied to economic trends, personal development, or career progression.
Examples
Their company's performance has been stagnant all along.
If you don't work harder, you will stop making progress.
Related words
Common phrases
economic stagnation
career stagnation
Common mistake
Learners sometimes mistakenly use this to describe physical objects that are stationary, but it is strictly reserved for abstract concepts like progress, development, or performance.
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.
