baak6 baak6白白
Jyutpingbaak6 baak6
Yalebaahk baahk
Definition
In vain; for nothing; to do something with no result.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This adverb emphasizes that an effort or resource has been expended without yielding any result, often carrying a sense of regret or frustration. It frequently appears before verbs of action or loss, such as 浪費 or 等. Unlike formal terms for futility, it feels very natural in everyday speech when describing a missed chance or a pointless task.
Examples
I queued for a whole hour, and it turned out to be a waste of time.
Don't let this opportunity go to waste.
Related words
Common phrases
to waste something for nothing
to wait in vain
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the adjective 白白 meaning fair-skinned or pure white, which is a completely different word despite the identical characters. Context usually makes the distinction clear, as the adverbial usage always relates to wasted effort or resources.
Grammar color guide
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Adverb
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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.
