coeng4 caak6戕賊戕贼
Jyutpingcoeng4 caak6
Yalechèuhng chaahk
Definition
To harm, injure, or ruin.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This term is highly formal and carries a literary, almost archaic weight that is rarely encountered in casual speech. It is typically reserved for written essays, formal critiques, or dramatic rhetoric to emphasize the severity of an action. Using it in everyday conversation will sound overly academic or theatrical.
Examples
Doing that is simply harming your own body.
Why would you want to ruin your own future?
Related words
Common phrases
to ruin one's health
to destroy one's future
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb like 傷害, but it implies a more deliberate, destructive, or violent act of ruin rather than simple injury. It is not used for minor physical accidents or everyday mishaps.
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.
