heoi2 pui3許配许配
Jyutpingheoi2 pui3
Yalehéui pui
Definition
To betroth one's daughter in an arranged marriage.
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How it's used
This term is almost exclusively used in the context of historical, traditional, or fictional arranged marriages. It carries a formal and slightly archaic tone, reflecting a patriarchal social structure where a daughter's marriage was decided by her parents. You will rarely hear it in modern, everyday conversation unless discussing period dramas or history.
Examples
Her father wants to betroth her to that young man from the next village.
Related words
Common phrases
to be betrothed to someone
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe modern dating or engagement, as it implies a lack of consent from the person being betrothed. Using it for a contemporary couple would sound extremely strange or even offensive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
