zit3 faan2折返
Jyutpingzit3 faan2
Yalejit fáan
Definition
To turn back; to reverse one's direction on a journey and return to the starting point.
neutraldaily actionstransport
How it's used
Although it sounds slightly more formal than the everyday phrase 返轉頭, it is frequently used in news reports, traffic updates, and formal travel advice. It implies a deliberate decision to abandon a journey or mission due to an obstacle or change of plan. It is rarely used for casual U-turns while driving, where people prefer to say 掉頭.
Examples
The road ahead is blocked, we have to turn back.
Why did you suddenly turn back? Did you leave something behind?
Related words
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.
