ceoi3 lai6淬礪淬砺
Jyutpingceoi3 lai6
Yalecheui laih
Definition
To work hard and with stamina.
writtenworkdescriptions
How it's used
Literary in origin, this term carries a sense of rigorous self-improvement or tempering one's character through hardship. It is rarely used in casual, everyday speech and is more common in formal writing, speeches, or when describing someone's long-term dedication to a craft or goal. It implies a process of grinding or sharpening, similar to how a blade is polished.
Examples
He works hard every day, aiming to get into university.
If you keep working hard like this, you will definitely succeed.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb like 努力, but it is much more formal and carries a stronger nuance of enduring hardship to achieve refinement. Using it in casual conversation about simple tasks will sound unnatural or overly dramatic.
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.
