zo2 jiu4 jau6 baai2左搖右擺左摇右摆
Jyutpingzo2 jiu4 jau6 baai2
Yalejó yìuh yauh báai
Definition
Swaying from side to side; unstable or rocking.
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
This idiom describes an unstable, rhythmic motion rather than a sudden fall or collapse. It is frequently used to describe the movement of vehicles on uneven roads or people who are unsteady on their feet due to intoxication or illness. You can also use it metaphorically to describe someone who is indecisive or constantly changing their stance on an issue.
Examples
The car is swaying from side to side, so dangerous.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 搖擺不定, which is used exclusively for indecisiveness or a lack of firm principles. While 左搖右擺 can be used metaphorically for indecision, it primarily refers to physical, visible swaying.
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.
