wu4 dip6 haau6 jing3蝴蝶效應蝴蝶效应
Jyutpingwu4 dip6 haau6 jing3
Yalewùh dihp haauh ying
Definition
The butterfly effect; a chain reaction triggered by a seemingly minor event.
neutralother
How it's used
Borrowing directly from chaos theory, this term is used in casual conversation to describe how a minor, seemingly insignificant event triggers a massive, unexpected chain reaction. It is frequently invoked when discussing history, personal life choices, or complex systems where small variables lead to unpredictable outcomes. Unlike more technical jargon, it is widely understood by the general public in Hong Kong.
Examples
This incident is simply a butterfly effect.
Do you believe the butterfly effect can influence the future?
Related words
Common phrases
produce a butterfly effect
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.
