bun6 tou4叛逃
Jyutpingbun6 tou4
Yalebuhn tòuh
Definition
To defect; to betray one's country or group and flee.
writtenother
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of political or organizational betrayal, often implying a breach of loyalty to a country or a specific group. It is far more formal than everyday verbs like 走 or 逃走, making it sound like something taken from a news report or a spy movie. Using it in casual conversation about mundane situations will sound overly dramatic or ironic.
Examples
He actually chose to defect, I really didn't expect that.
Who would want to defect to another place?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general fleeing or running away. Remember that it specifically requires an element of betrayal or breaking a formal allegiance, so it is not appropriate for simply running away from home or escaping a boring party.
Grammar color guide
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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.
