ce1 kau4奢求
Jyutpingce1 kau4
Yalechē kàuh
Definition
To demand too much; to desire something unrealistic or improbable.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the gap between one's current reality and an unrealistic goal. It carries a sense of criticism or self-reflection, implying that the desire is not just difficult to achieve, but perhaps unreasonable or out of touch with one's circumstances. It is often used to advise someone to lower their expectations.
Examples
Don't have such unrealistic expectations, it's better to be down-to-earth.
With such a low salary, how can he realistically expect to buy a flat?
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 追求, which is neutral and simply means to pursue or chase a goal. 奢求 carries a negative connotation of being greedy or delusional, whereas 追求 is a standard verb for seeking something.
Grammar color guide
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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.
