zuk1 mo2捉摸
Jyutpingzuk1 mo2
Yalejūk mó
Definition
To fathom, grasp, or predict something that is unpredictable.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the elusive nature of someone's thoughts or a complex situation that lacks a clear pattern. It often implies that the subject is intentionally mysterious or inherently unpredictable. While it can be used for physical objects, it is overwhelmingly used in abstract contexts regarding human behavior or shifting circumstances.
Examples
He is very eccentric, it is really hard to fathom him.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 摸索, which means to grope or feel one's way through a process or dark space. 捉摸 is about trying to understand or predict something abstract, whereas 摸索 is about the physical or metaphorical process of trial and error.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
