zuk1 din6觸電触电
Jyutpingzuk1 din6
Yalejūk dihn
Definition
To get or give an electric shock; for an electric current to pass through the body.
colloquialhealthdaily actions
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of suffering an electric shock, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe the sudden, intense feeling of romantic attraction when first meeting someone. It captures that specific spark or jolt of excitement that happens during a chance encounter. Using it in this figurative way is very common in casual conversation and pop culture.
Examples
Be careful when fixing the electricity, don't get an electric shock.
He broke the socket and ended up getting an electric shock.
Related words
Common phrases
accidentally get an electric shock
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the act of plugging something into a socket, which is usually expressed as 插電. Using 觸電 to mean plugging in an appliance will cause confusion as it specifically implies a dangerous or accidental discharge of electricity.
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.
