bat1 ciu3 zi2 syun1不肖子孫不肖子孙
Jyutpingbat1 ciu3 zi2 syun1
Yalebāt chiu jí syūn
Definition
Unworthy descendants
neutralpeoplefamily
How it's used
Carries a heavy moral weight rooted in Confucian filial piety, often used to condemn someone who brings shame upon their family name or squanders ancestral wealth. It is rarely used in casual conversation unless the speaker is expressing strong disapproval or moral indignation. The term is gender neutral but almost exclusively used to describe men in traditional contexts.
Examples
He gambles all the time, he really is an unworthy descendant.
Doing this is an insult to your ancestors, you are simply an unworthy descendant.
Related words
Common phrases
to be an unworthy descendant
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply unsuccessful or poor, as the term specifically implies a moral failure or a betrayal of family values.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
