zaat3扎
Jyutpingzaat3
Yalejaat
Definition
To wake up with a start, or to jump up suddenly from being startled.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
Focuses on the sudden, involuntary nature of an action, often implying a startle response or a reflexive movement. It is frequently used with the complement 醒 to describe waking up abruptly from a nightmare or a sudden noise. Unlike general verbs for waking up, this carries a sense of physical tension or a sharp reaction.
Examples
He woke up suddenly in the middle of the night, scared and covered in sweat.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage of 扎, which often relates to piercing or binding. In Cantonese, it is specifically tied to sudden, jerky movements or waking up abruptly.
Grammar color guide
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Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
