coeng4 meng6 zaai3 coeng4 meng6 waan4長命債長命還长命债长命还
Jyutpingcoeng4 meng6 zaai3 coeng4 meng6 waan4
Yalechèuhng mehng jaai chèuhng mehng wàahn
Definition
To pay off a life-long debt or commitment slowly over the course of one's life.
colloquialmoney
How it's used
This phrase is often used to describe long term financial obligations or even metaphorical burdens like emotional debts or promises that take a lifetime to fulfill. It carries a sense of resignation or acceptance that the repayment process will be a slow, drawn out affair rather than an immediate one.
Examples
This debt can be paid off slowly, no need to rush.
You owe him so much, it really is a lifelong debt to pay off.
Related words
Common phrases
repay slowly
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe urgent or short term debts, as the phrase specifically emphasizes the long, enduring nature of the repayment process.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
