zau2 m4 hei2走唔起
Jyutpingzau2 m4 hei2
Yalejáu m̀h héi
Definition
To be unable to go, leave, or escape, usually due to being held back, too busy, or lacking the means.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
Focuses on the physical or mental inability to initiate movement or leave a location, often due to fatigue or lack of motivation. It carries a strong sense of being anchored to one's current spot, rather than just a simple lack of transportation. Use this when someone is too exhausted to get up from the sofa or head out for a social event.
Examples
I am so tired today, I really cannot go anywhere.
You still have to work tomorrow, you still can't go out tonight?
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 走唔到, which usually implies an external obstacle like a blocked road or a cancelled train. 走唔起 specifically highlights the internal state of the person, such as being too lazy or drained to move.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
