zong2 gwai2撞鬼
Jyutpingzong2 gwai2
Yalejóng gwái
Definition
To encounter sudden misfortune, bad luck, or make involuntary mistakes, as if possessed or haunted.
colloquialemotionother
How it's used
Used to express frustration when a series of unfortunate events or uncharacteristic blunders occur in a short period. It implies that the situation is so bizarre or unlucky that it feels supernatural, as if an invisible force is sabotaging your efforts. It is commonly used in self-deprecating humor or when venting to friends about a bad day.
Examples
Are you cursed today? Why do you keep making mistakes?
I had a stroke of bad luck and fell into a drain just now, so unlucky.
Related words
Common phrases
like being haunted
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual paranormal encounters or seeing spirits. It is strictly a metaphorical expression for bad luck or clumsy behavior.
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.
