ban1 song1奔喪奔丧
Jyutpingban1 song1
Yalebān sōng
Definition
To hurry home from afar for a relative's funeral.
neutralfamilydaily actions
How it's used
Carries a heavy, somber tone as it specifically refers to the act of traveling back home due to a death in the family. It implies a sense of urgency and duty, distinguishing it from simply attending a funeral that was planned in advance. People rarely use this term in casual conversation unless they are explaining a sudden absence or a serious personal matter.
Examples
He took leave immediately to attend the funeral after hearing his family member passed away.
Do you know why he had to rush back for the funeral so urgently?
Related words
Common phrases
rush back to attend a funeral
take leave to attend a funeral
Common mistake
Avoid using this word for attending a funeral of a friend or a distant acquaintance, as it is strictly reserved for close family members. Using it for anyone else sounds unnatural and 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.
