bit6 lei4別離别离
Jyutpingbit6 lei4
Yalebiht lèih
Definition
To part from each other; a separation between two people.
writtenpeopleemotion
How it's used
Literary in tone, this term is rarely used in casual daily speech. It carries a heavy, emotional weight often found in songs, poetry, or dramatic writing. For everyday situations, Cantonese speakers prefer using 分開 or 散.
Examples
The two of them have been separated for many years.
When will you two finally end this separation?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this word in common contexts like saying goodbye to a friend at the MTR station, which sounds overly dramatic or poetic. Stick to 分開 when describing normal departures.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
