gei3 geoi1寄居
Jyutpinggei3 geoi1
Yalegei gēui
Definition
To live temporarily at someone else's place.
colloquialhomepeople
How it's used
Suggests a sense of dependency or lack of permanence, often implying that the person is staying in someone else's space out of necessity rather than choice. It is commonly used when discussing childhood arrangements or temporary housing during travel or study. Unlike simply staying over, it carries a nuance of being a guest for an extended period.
Examples
He lived with his relatives when he was a child.
Which friend are you planning to stay with?
Related words
Common phrases
hermit crab
life as a guest in someone else's home
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply staying at a hotel or a friend's house for a short visit, as it implies a more prolonged or dependent arrangement. It is also distinct from renting a room, which is usually referred to as 租房.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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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.
