bui3 bun6背叛
Jyutpingbui3 bun6
Yalebui buhn
Definition
To betray or revolt against an authority, organization, or principle.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
This word carries a heavy, serious tone and is typically reserved for significant breaches of trust or loyalty. It is rarely used in casual, everyday situations like missing a meeting or changing plans, where words like 爽約 or 走數 would be more appropriate. Using it for minor matters can sound overly dramatic or theatrical.
Examples
He actually betrayed his own good friend.
How could you betray this team?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this word too broadly for any kind of broken promise. It is specifically for deep, moral, or political disloyalty rather than simple unreliability.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
