dong1 bing1當兵当兵
Jyutpingdong1 bing1
Yaledōng bīng
Definition
To become a soldier, enlist, or serve in the military.
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
This term is used specifically for the act of joining or serving in the military. It carries a sense of duty or a life phase, and in Hong Kong, it is often used when discussing people from places where military service is mandatory, such as Taiwan or South Korea.
Examples
He really wanted to join the army when he was a kid.
Does anyone in your family have experience serving in the military?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the slang term 當兵 in Taiwan, which refers to a man who is being used for emotional or financial support by a woman without being in a committed relationship. In Hong Kong, the term is almost exclusively used in its literal military sense.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
