zaa3乍
Jyutpingzaa3
Yaleja
Definition
Suddenly, unexpectedly, or for a very short duration.
writtendescriptionsweather
How it's used
This character functions primarily as a formal or literary prefix indicating a very brief or sudden change of state. It is rarely used as a standalone word in modern spoken Cantonese, appearing mostly in four-character idioms or formal descriptions of weather and emotional shifts. It carries a sense of transience, emphasizing that the situation is fleeting or just beginning.
Examples
The weather is suddenly turning cold again, remember to add a layer.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 突然, which is the standard colloquial term for suddenly. Using 乍 in everyday conversation will sound overly formal or poetic, as it is restricted to specific literary contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
