zau2 naan6走難走难
Jyutpingzau2 naan6
Yalejáu naahn
Definition
To flee or escape from war or disaster to a safe place.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the act of fleeing due to large scale crises like war, famine, or natural disasters. It carries a heavy, somber tone and is often used by older generations to describe the hardships of migration during turbulent times. Unlike simply running away, it implies a desperate, forced departure with no clear destination in mind.
Examples
Back then, their whole family fled here to Hong Kong to escape the war.
When you are running for your life, how could you possibly worry about anything else?
Related words
Common phrases
fled to Hong Kong as a refugee
the whole family fleeing together
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply running away from a minor problem or leaving a place in a hurry. It is reserved for life or death situations involving significant external threats.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
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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.
