ci4 zi1 ji5 hang4持之以恆持之以恒
Jyutpingci4 zi1 ji5 hang4
Yalechìh jī yíh hàhng
Definition
To persevere; to persist; to stick to something with determination.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a formal and encouraging tone, often used when giving advice or reflecting on long term goals. While it is a four character idiom, it fits naturally into spoken Cantonese sentences by being treated as a verb phrase. It implies a sense of discipline that goes beyond simple persistence, highlighting the importance of steady, uninterrupted effort over time.
Examples
The most important thing when learning a language is to stick with it.
Have you been consistent with your weight loss plan?
Related words
Common phrases
an attitude of perseverance
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb like 堅持, but it specifically emphasizes the aspect of time and consistency. Using it for short term tasks can sound overly dramatic or unnatural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
