bik1偪
Jyutpingbik1
Yalebīk
Definition
To compel, force, or pressure; also, to get close to or narrow.
- to compel; to pressure; to force
- to approach; to get close to
- narrow; cramped; urgent
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
While 偪 is a common variant for 逼, it is specifically preferred in Hong Kong Cantonese when describing physical space that is cramped or narrow. It captures a sense of being squeezed or lacking breathing room, whether in a physical hallway or a metaphorical situation. You will rarely see it used in formal writing, where 逼 remains the standard choice.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 迫, which is also used for 'narrow' or 'crowded' in Cantonese. While 偪 and 迫 are often interchangeable in casual speech, 迫 is more frequently used for crowds of people, whereas 偪 often emphasizes the tightness of a space or the intensity of pressure.
Grammar color guide
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Particle
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
