zaa1 naa4揸拿
Jyutpingzaa1 naa4
Yalejā nàh
Definition
Confidence, certainty, or assurance.
colloquialemotion
How it's used
This term specifically refers to the feeling of having a firm grasp or control over a situation, often implying a sense of security or predictability. It is frequently used in negative constructions to express doubt or uncertainty about an outcome. Unlike the more formal 信心, it carries a sense of practical assurance rather than abstract belief.
Examples
Are you confident about this job?
I have absolutely no confidence in this matter.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the verb 揸, which means to hold or drive. Remember that 揸拿 is a noun representing the feeling of certainty, not the physical act of holding something.
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.
