wat1 mei5 sap6屈尾十
Jyutpingwat1 mei5 sap6
Yalewāt méih sahp
Definition
An abrupt and unexpected change of mind or sudden reversal of course.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the feeling of a sudden, jarring change in direction or intent. It is almost exclusively used with the quantifier phrase 一個, which emphasizes the abruptness of the action as if it were a single, swift movement. It carries a slightly informal, dramatic tone, often used to express frustration or surprise at someone's unpredictable behavior.
Examples
He promised to come help, but then he suddenly bailed on us.
Don't just suddenly walk out on me, we haven't finished talking yet.
Related words
Common phrases
a sudden change of heart or departure
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal physical turn, but it is strictly figurative and refers to a change in decision or a sudden departure. It is not used for simple physical turning around.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
