haam4 fu2鹹苦咸苦
Jyutpinghaam4 fu2
Yalehàahm fú
Definition
Hardships, tough times, or arduous experiences.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This term is a metaphorical way to describe the bitterness of life experiences, drawing on the literal flavors of salt and bitterness. It carries a sense of sympathy or respect for someone who has survived difficult circumstances. It is often used in the context of reflecting on one's past or discussing someone's survival through poverty or struggle.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal taste of food. While it uses the characters for salty and bitter, it is strictly reserved for describing life experiences and hardships, not culinary flavors.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
