bei6辟
Jyutpingbei6
Yalebeih
Definition
To ward off, keep away, or eliminate something.
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How it's used
Primarily used in the context of removing unpleasant smells or dampness. It often appears in compound words like 辟味 or 辟邪, where it implies an active effort to neutralize or push away an undesirable presence. Unlike formal Mandarin usage, Cantonese speakers almost exclusively use this in the specific context of odors or superstitious protection.
Examples
This aromatherapy is very strong, it's perfect for getting rid of odors.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 避, which means to avoid or dodge. While 辟 focuses on actively neutralizing or clearing away an external influence, 避 focuses on the subject moving themselves away from a situation.
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.
