gam1 zi1 jyu4 ji4甘之如飴甘之如饴
Jyutpinggam1 zi1 jyu4 ji4
Yalegām jī yùh yìh
Definition
To gladly endure hardships for something one loves, finding the struggle sweet like sugar.
neutralemotiondescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is a literary expression that describes a state of mind where one finds joy in hardship because of a deep passion for the goal. It is often used to describe someone who is dedicated to a career, a hobby, or a personal sacrifice. While it sounds formal, it is frequently used in daily conversation to show admiration for someone's perseverance.
Examples
He lives in poverty for his dream, but he enjoys every bit of it.
Why do you enjoy this job so much even though it is so exhausting?
Related words
Common phrases
to endure hardship with joy
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'I like it', but it specifically implies that the situation is objectively difficult or bitter. Using it for something that is already pleasant or easy makes the sentence sound unnatural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
