bat1 fun1 ji4 saan3不歡而散不欢而散
Jyutpingbat1 fun1 ji4 saan3
Yalebāt fūn yìh saan
Definition
To part with ill feelings, or to break up a meeting on a sour note.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This idiom is used to describe the conclusion of a social interaction, meeting, or negotiation that ends in mutual resentment or unhappiness. It implies that the participants leave the scene separately, emphasizing the lack of closure or resolution. While it is a four character idiom, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to describe personal conflicts or failed business deals.
Examples
The two of them were chatting, but ended up parting on bad terms.
Why did your gathering tonight end on such a sour note?
Related words
Common phrases
eventually parted on bad terms
the result was parting on bad terms
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for fighting, but it specifically describes the ending of an event. It cannot be used to describe a physical fight or a simple disagreement that does not lead to people leaving or separating.
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.
