wui4徊
Jyutpingwui4
Yalewùih
Definition
To pace back and forth, linger, or dither.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
徘徊 is almost exclusively used as a compound word in Cantonese, and you will rarely see the character 徊 used in isolation. It carries a sense of physical pacing or mental hesitation, often implying a state of indecision or being stuck in a transitional space. While it can describe physical movement, it is frequently used metaphorically for someone struggling to commit to a choice.
Examples
He lingered at the doorway for a long time.
Are you still dithering over whether to make this decision?
Related words
Common phrases
hesitant and indecisive
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb of movement, but it specifically implies a lack of direction or purpose. Do not use it to describe purposeful walking or commuting.
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.
