wan5 joeng6醖釀酝酿
Jyutpingwan5 joeng6
Yalewáhn yeuhng
Definition
To brew, ferment, build up, or develop gradually.
neutraldaily actionsother
How it's used
Originally referring to the fermentation process of alcohol, this term is now commonly applied to abstract situations like political movements, social unrest, or long-term plans. It implies a slow, hidden, or gradual process that is gaining momentum before finally breaking out. It is rarely used for simple, quick tasks, as it carries a sense of gravity or significant preparation.
Examples
They are brewing a new plan.
This storm has been building up for a long time.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a synonym of simple planning, but it specifically emphasizes the 'brewing' or 'gathering' phase of something that is not yet fully visible or active. Avoid using it for mundane, everyday arrangements like booking a table or buying groceries.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
