jap6 zeoi6入贅入赘
Definition
To marry into the bride's family, with the groom becoming a member of the wife's household and living with them.
How it's used
Historically, this practice was often associated with families lacking a male heir, where the husband would take the wife's surname to continue the family line. In modern Hong Kong, the term is used less frequently in a formal sense and carries a slightly traditional or old-fashioned nuance. It implies a significant shift in household dynamics, as the husband essentially integrates into his spouse's family structure rather than establishing an independent household.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with simply living with in-laws, but the term specifically implies a formal status change where the husband becomes a member of the wife's family unit, often involving a reversal of traditional patriarchal roles.
Grammar color guide
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.
