baa6 liu5罷了罢了
Jyutpingbaa6 liu5
Yalebah líuh
Definition
Modal particle indicating that is all, only, or to let a matter drop.
colloquialparticle
How it's used
This particle serves to minimize the significance of a preceding statement, often implying that the situation is simple or unremarkable. It frequently appears in the structure 只係...罷了 to emphasize that something is nothing more than what has been described. While it functions similarly to 啫, it carries a slightly more formal or literary tone, making it less common in casual, rapid-fire speech compared to the ubiquitous 啫.
Examples
I was just joking, don't take it so seriously.
Related words
Common phrases
it is just... that's all
it is merely... nothing more
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 啫, but 罷了 is generally reserved for written contexts or more deliberate, reflective speech. Using it in very casual, fast-paced conversation can sound slightly stiff or overly dramatic.
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.
