gei6 wai5忌諱忌讳
Jyutpinggei6 wai5
Yalegeih wáih
Definition
To avoid or abstain from doing or saying something due to tradition, superstition, custom, or social norms.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Often implies a sense of superstition or deep-seated cultural sensitivity rather than just simple dislike. It frequently appears in contexts involving death, illness, or personal physical traits that someone might be insecure about. Using this word suggests that the avoidance is driven by a desire to maintain harmony or show respect for social boundaries.
Examples
It is taboo to say the word 'death' in front of elders.
Related words
Common phrases
to have certain reservations or taboos
nothing is taboo
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simple dislike or fear, but it specifically carries the nuance of social or cultural restriction. It is not used for personal preferences like disliking a certain food.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
