faa1 fai3花費花费
Jyutpingfaa1 fai3
Yalefā fai
Definition
To spend or expend money or time.
neutralmoneytime
How it's used
Focuses on the consumption of resources like money or time, often implying a significant or deliberate expenditure. While it can be used in formal contexts, it is perfectly natural in daily speech when discussing budgets or project timelines. It carries a slightly more objective tone than the more casual use of 用.
Examples
He spent a lot of money on his trip this time.
How much time does it take to organize this event?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean the act of purchasing a specific item, where 買 is more appropriate. It is specifically for the total amount of resources consumed rather than the transaction itself.
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.
