zin3 leot6顫慄颤栗
Jyutpingzin3 leot6
Yalejin leuht
Definition
To shudder, shiver, or tremble violently due to extreme fear.
writtenemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Literary in origin, this term is rarely used in casual spoken Cantonese to describe physical shaking. Most speakers would prefer the more direct and common expression 震 or 震騰騰 to convey the same feeling of trembling from fear or cold. Using 顫慄 in conversation often sounds overly dramatic or like a line from a novel.
Examples
He saw that ghost shadow and was trembling all over from fear.
Related words
Common phrases
trembling with fear
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe shaking from the cold, as it specifically carries a connotation of fear or intense emotional shock. For cold, stick to 震.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
