dou6 jat6度日
Jyutpingdou6 jat6
Yaledouh yaht
Definition
To spend one's days; typically implying getting by or living in a dismal, struggling, or listless manner.
colloquialdaily actionsemotion
How it's used
Carries a heavy sense of resignation or aimlessness, suggesting that the speaker is merely waiting for time to pass rather than actively living. It is frequently used to describe someone stuck in a monotonous or difficult situation, such as being unemployed or trapped in a dead-end job. Unlike simply saying passing time, it implies a lack of purpose or a struggle to get through each day.
Examples
He spends his days hiding at home, it is really depressing.
How do you plan to pass your time?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe fun or productive activities, as it sounds inherently negative and gloomy. It is not a neutral way to say you are spending your day, but rather a comment on the poor quality of that time.
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.
