bat1 jau4 dak1不由得
Jyutpingbat1 jau4 dak1
Yalebāt yàuh dāk
Definition
To not be allowed to, or to not be able to help doing something.
- to not be allowed to; to not be up to someone to decide
- cannot help but; involuntarily; unable to control oneself
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
This term functions in two distinct ways: expressing an inability to control one's own emotions or actions, or indicating that someone lacks the authority or permission to intervene in a situation. It carries a sense of inevitability or external constraint. When used in the sense of 'cannot help but', it is often interchangeable with 忍唔住.
Related words
Common phrases
not up to you
Common mistake
Learners often confuse the two meanings. Using it to mean 'cannot help but' is common in written or formal speech, while using it to mean 'not allowed to' is more common in direct, authoritative, or confrontational spoken contexts.
Grammar color guide
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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.
