jan1 gwo2 bou3 jing3因果報應因果报应
Jyutpingjan1 gwo2 bou3 jing3
Yaleyān gwó bou ying
Definition
Karma; the law of cause and effect, where one's actions inevitably bring about fitting retribution or reward.
colloquialother
How it's used
Often used in a moralizing context to warn people that their actions will eventually have consequences. It carries a strong sense of cosmic justice or divine retribution rather than just the neutral concept of cause and effect. People frequently use it when someone who has acted maliciously finally suffers a misfortune.
Examples
You should be kind, karma is real.
He has done so many bad things, isn't he afraid of karma?
Related words
Common phrases
to believe in karma
the cycle of karma
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple physical cause and effect, such as dropping a glass and it breaking. It is strictly reserved for moral or ethical outcomes involving human behavior.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
