goi2 gwo3改過改过
Jyutpinggoi2 gwo3
Yalegói gwo
Definition
To correct one's mistakes or mend one's ways.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the internal process of self-reflection and behavioral change rather than just fixing a technical error. It is often used in moral or behavioral contexts, such as someone promising to stop bad habits or poor conduct. It carries a sense of sincerity and long-term commitment to improvement.
Examples
If you did something wrong, you must correct it and not repeat the mistake.
He knows he was wrong and has decided to mend his ways from now on.
Related words
Common phrases
to turn over a new leaf
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 改正, which is typically used for fixing objective errors like typos, incorrect data, or specific mistakes in a document. While 改正 is about accuracy, 改過 is about character and personal conduct.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
