baak3 nin4 gwai1 lou5百年歸老百年归老
Jyutpingbaak3 nin4 gwai1 lou5
Yalebaak nìhn gwāi lóuh
Definition
A euphemism for death, typically used when discussing the future funeral arrangements of a living person.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This phrase serves as a culturally sensitive way to address the inevitable end of life, avoiding the bluntness of the word 死. It is frequently employed when discussing inheritance, wills, or funeral planning to maintain a respectful tone. Using this expression helps soften the emotional impact of the topic when speaking to elderly relatives or friends.
Examples
keoi5佢dou1都jat1一baa2把nin4年gei2紀，hai6係si4時hau6候nam2諗haa5下baak3百nin4年gwai1歸lou5老zi1之hau6後di1啲on1安paai4排。
He is quite old now, it is time to think about the arrangements for after he passes away.
Related words
Common phrases
after one passes away
Common mistake
Avoid using this phrase to describe someone who has already passed away, as it is strictly reserved for planning or discussing the future. For someone who has died, use more direct terms like 過身 or 走咗 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
