hong2 koi3 gaai2 nong4慷慨解囊
Jyutpinghong2 koi3 gaai2 nong4
Yalehóng koi gáai nòhng
Definition
To give generously, or to make a generous financial donation.
writtenmoneypeople
How it's used
This idiom is a formal expression often reserved for charitable contexts, fundraising events, or news reports. While it literally describes opening a purse to give money, it carries a tone of respect and admiration for the donor's altruism. Using it in casual conversation about small, everyday expenses can sound overly dramatic or sarcastic.
Examples
Thank you for your generous donation, it helped many people.
He is usually stingy, how would he ever donate generously?
Related words
Common phrases
philanthropists donate generously
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe someone who is simply 'generous' in personality, such as paying for a friend's meal. However, it specifically refers to the act of donating money for a cause or helping someone in need, rather than general social generosity.
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.
