deoi3 m4 zyu6對唔住对唔住
Jyutpingdeoi3 m4 zyu6
Yaledeui m̀h jyuh
Definition
An expression used to apologize; sorry, pardon me, or my apologies.
Example
colloquialemotioncommunication
How it's used
Expressing regret in Cantonese often involves this phrase, but it carries a formal weight that can sound overly serious in casual settings. For minor inconveniences or bumping into someone, people frequently use 唔好意思 instead. Reserve this for genuine mistakes or when you have caused someone real trouble.
Examples
I am really sorry, I arrived late.
Sorry, excuse me, please let me pass.
Related words
Common mistake
Beginners often use this for every situation, but it is too heavy for small social slips. Using it when you just want to get someone's attention or squeeze past them in a crowd sounds unnatural compared to 唔好意思.
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.
