heoi1 dou6 gwong1 jam1虛度光陰虚度光阴
Jyutpingheoi1 dou6 gwong1 jam1
Yalehēui douh gwōng yām
Definition
To waste time; to spend a long period of time doing nothing meaningful.
colloquialtimedaily actions
How it's used
Carries a slightly formal or literary tone despite being used in daily speech to criticize laziness or lack of productivity. It is often used when someone reflects on their own lack of progress or when giving a stern piece of advice to others. Unlike simpler expressions like 嘥時間, this phrase emphasizes the regret of letting precious time slip away without achieving anything substantial.
Examples
You spend all day playing games and wasting time, don't you think it's a waste?
Related words
Common phrases
a life spent in idleness
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, lighthearted contexts, as it implies a serious sense of regret or moral judgment regarding how one manages their life. It is not a casual way to say you are bored or just relaxing.
Grammar color guide
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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.
