gwai1 sai1歸西归西
Jyutpinggwai1 sai1
Yalegwāi sāi
Definition
To die; to pass away.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Carries a strong religious undertone rooted in Buddhist beliefs about the Western Pure Land. It functions as a polite or softened way to discuss death, similar to saying someone has passed away or gone to a better place. Avoid using this in overly casual or disrespectful contexts, as it still refers to a sensitive life event.
Examples
I heard the old man next door passed away last night.
Everyone will eventually pass away, so it is most important to live in the moment.
Related words
Common phrases
has already passed away
sooner or later will pass away
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe the death of animals or in a clinical, medical report, as it is strictly reserved for human beings and carries a specific cultural weight.
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.
