gwat1 hei3骨氣骨气
Jyutpinggwat1 hei3
Yalegwāt hei
Definition
Strength of character; integrity; unyielding loyalty to someone or to one's own principles.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Possessing 骨氣 implies a refusal to compromise one's dignity or principles even when facing pressure or temptation. It is often used to praise someone who stands their ground against authority or financial coercion. Conversely, describing someone as 冇骨氣 is a harsh criticism, suggesting they are spineless or easily bought.
Examples
He has a lot of integrity and will never take your money no matter what.
You should have some self-respect and not sell yourself out for a little bit of money.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 脾氣, which refers to one's temper or mood. While 骨氣 is a positive moral trait, having a bad 脾氣 is generally seen as a negative personality flaw.
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.
