zaam2眨
Jyutpingzaam2
Yalejáam
Definition
To blink; to flicker or open and close quickly.
- to blink; to rapidly open and close the eyelids
- figurativeto flicker; to quickly alternate between light and dark
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
Beyond the literal action of blinking eyes, this verb is frequently used to describe anything that flashes or flickers, such as neon signs or faulty light bulbs. When used for light, it often takes the reduplicated form 眨吓眨吓 to emphasize the repetitive, unstable nature of the movement. It is also common in the expression 眨眼間, which describes a very short duration of time, similar to the English phrase "in the blink of an eye."
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 眼瞓, which refers to being sleepy. While blinking can be a sign of tiredness, the verb itself strictly describes the physical movement of the eyelids or the flickering of light.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
