bei6 hoi6被害
Definition
To be harmed, injured, or killed as a victim.
- to be harmed or injured
- to be killed or murdered
How it's used
Unlike the English passive voice which can be used for minor inconveniences, this term carries a heavy connotation of serious misfortune, physical harm, or even death. It is frequently encountered in news reports or formal storytelling to describe someone who has fallen prey to a crime or a major conspiracy. When used in casual conversation, it often sounds dramatic or hyperbolic, implying that the person has been severely wronged by someone else's actions.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple accidents or minor annoyances, as it implies a deliberate act of malice or a significant tragedy. It is not a direct translation for being 'hurt' in a casual sense, such as falling down or getting a small cut.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
