hong4 fuk6降服
Jyutpinghong4 fuk6
Yalehòhng fuhk
Definition
To surrender, submit, or yield to someone.
colloquialother
How it's used
While 降服 is understood in formal or literary contexts, native speakers almost exclusively use 投降 when talking about giving up in a conflict or competition. 降服 often carries a more dramatic or archaic nuance, sometimes implying a spiritual or emotional submission rather than just a tactical defeat. In everyday conversation, stick to 投降 to sound natural.
Related words
Common phrases
to raise hands in surrender
unconditional surrender
Common mistake
Learners often use 降服 as a direct translation for surrender in casual situations, but it sounds overly formal or like something out of a period drama. Use 投降 for general contexts like games, arguments, or military surrender.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
