zin3 dau2顫抖颤抖
Jyutpingzin3 dau2
Yalejin dáu
Definition
To shiver or tremble.
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
While 顫抖 is the formal written term, it is rarely used in spoken Cantonese. Locals almost exclusively use 震 to describe the physical act of trembling or shivering. Using 顫抖 in daily conversation sounds overly dramatic or like reading from a book.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse the verb 震 with the noun 震動, which refers to a vibration or tremor. Also, avoid using 顫抖 in casual settings as it can sound unnatural or overly literary.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
