bei1 zin6卑賤卑贱
Jyutpingbei1 zin6
Yalebēi jihn
Definition
Lowly or humble; of extremely low social status.
writtenpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of moral or social degradation rather than just simple poverty. It is often used in formal contexts or historical dramas to describe someone who is looked down upon by society. In modern daily speech, it is quite heavy and rarely used to describe friends or acquaintances unless one is being intentionally insulting.
Examples
He feels that his background is very lowly.
Why do you have to say such base things?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 貧窮, which strictly refers to being poor or having no money. 卑賤 focuses on the low status or lack of dignity in a person's position or behavior.
Grammar color guide
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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.
