bok3 si1 zai3 zung3博施濟眾博施济众
Jyutpingbok3 si1 zai3 zung3
Yalebok sī jai jung
Definition
To give charitably and help the needy extensively.
writtenpeople
How it's used
This is a formal idiom rooted in classical Chinese, often used in written contexts or formal speeches to describe someone with a charitable spirit. Using it in casual, everyday conversation can sound overly dramatic or ironic, as it carries a sense of grand, altruistic virtue. It is most commonly found in news reports or charity event descriptions rather than in casual chat between friends.
Examples
He is always helping the needy and has assisted many grassroots families.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb phrase, but it is a formal idiom that does not fit naturally into casual spoken Cantonese. Using it to describe a friend buying you lunch would sound sarcastic or bizarre.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
