dou6 hip3道歉
Jyutpingdou6 hip3
Yaledouh hip
Definition
To apologize or say sorry to those affected after doing something wrong.
neutraldaily actionscommunication
How it's used
道歉 is a formal verb that sounds slightly stiff in casual, everyday conversation. People often prefer using the phrase 同人講對唔住 to express the same sentiment in a more natural, conversational way. Using the formal term can sometimes imply that the situation is serious or that the speaker is maintaining a distance from the person they are addressing.
Examples
You did something wrong, you should apologize to the person.
Why hasn't he apologized to you yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 道歉 as a noun, but it functions primarily as a verb. If you want to say 'an apology', you should use the phrase 講句對唔住 instead of trying to treat this word as a noun.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
