co1 faan6初犯
Jyutpingco1 faan6
Yalechō faahn
Definition
To commit an offence for the first time; a first offence.
neutralworkother
How it's used
Often used in legal or formal disciplinary contexts, this term carries a sense of leniency or mitigation. It is frequently employed when someone is pleading for mercy or when an authority figure is deciding whether to grant a second chance. While it sounds formal, it is perfectly acceptable in serious everyday conversations regarding rules or conduct.
Examples
This is his first offence, so the judge gave a lighter sentence.
Is it really your first offence, or are you just playing dumb?
Related words
Common phrases
considering your first offence
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 第一次, which is a neutral way to say 'first time' for any activity. 初犯 specifically implies a violation of a rule, law, or social norm, rather than just a chronological first occurrence.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
