dai2 lai6砥礪砥砺
Jyutpingdai2 lai6
Yaledái laih
Definition
To discipline, hone, or steel oneself; to practice and drill very hard.
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How it's used
Carries a formal or literary tone that is rarely used in casual daily conversation. It implies a sense of mutual growth or self-improvement through rigorous effort, often used in contexts like academic or professional development. You will most frequently encounter it in the phrase 互相砥礪 when describing a supportive relationship between peers.
Examples
We should encourage and push each other to improve together.
They are constantly honing themselves during the training.
Related words
Common phrases
to encourage and hone each other
Common mistake
Avoid using this in everyday casual settings, as it sounds overly academic or stiff. It is not a direct substitute for common verbs like 練習 or 操練, which are much more appropriate for physical or routine practice.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
