cam1 sik6侵蝕侵蚀
Jyutpingcam1 sik6
Yalechām sihk
Definition
To erode or corrode; to wear down gradually by natural forces such as wind or water.
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How it's used
Focuses primarily on the gradual physical wearing away of inanimate objects like rock formations or coastal landscapes by natural forces. While it can be used metaphorically to describe the slow decay of abstract concepts like authority or rights, it is rarely used for human relationships or personal health. It carries a sense of inevitable, long term damage rather than sudden destruction.
Examples
The rocks here have been severely eroded by the seawater.
Do you think the coastline will be eroded by the waves?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe the rusting of metal, as 鏽蝕 is the more precise term for corrosion caused by oxidation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
