bei1 lyut3卑劣
Jyutpingbei1 lyut3
Yalebēi lyut
Definition
Despicable, contemptible, dishonourable, or base.
neutraldescriptionspeople
How it's used
Reserved for describing actions or character traits that are morally bankrupt or lack basic integrity. It carries a strong sense of moral condemnation and is much more formal than simply calling someone 冇品 or 下賤. While often used in formal writing or serious accusations, it remains perfectly natural in spoken Cantonese when expressing genuine disgust or anger.
Examples
He used such despicable tricks to cheat people, it's really low.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is just socially awkward or unrefined. It specifically targets malicious intent or a lack of moral character, not just a lack of manners.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
