zaam2 haak3 ngaan5䁪吓眼
Jyutpingzaam2 haak3 ngaan5
Yalejáam haak ngáahn
Definition
In the blink of an eye; in an instant.
colloquialtimedaily actions
How it's used
This expression is used to describe an action that happens extremely quickly or unexpectedly. It functions as an adverbial phrase to emphasize the brevity of time. It is very common in casual storytelling to highlight how fast something occurred.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal blinking. It is an idiomatic way to express speed, not a description of the physical act of closing and opening eyelids.
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.
