ho4 lok6 ji4 bat1 wai4何樂而不為何乐而不为
Jyutpingho4 lok6 ji4 bat1 wai4
Yalehòh lohk yìh bāt wàih
Definition
Why not do it? (used as a rhetorical question when something is beneficial and there is no reason not to do it)
writtenother
How it's used
This phrase functions as a rhetorical question to express enthusiastic agreement or to justify a decision that is clearly beneficial. It is often used to persuade others by highlighting the obvious advantages of a situation. While it originates from classical Chinese, it is frequently used in modern Cantonese to add a touch of sophistication or emphasis to a suggestion.
Examples
Since there are free flight tickets being given away, why not take them?
This job pays well and is close to home, so why not take it.
Common phrases
why not do it (rhetorical)
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, low-stakes situations where it might sound overly dramatic or pretentious. It is best reserved for moments where you are justifying a choice that has clear, tangible benefits.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
