jat1 sing4 bat1 bin3一成不變一成不变
Jyutpingjat1 sing4 bat1 bin3
Yaleyāt sìhng bāt bin
Definition
Stubborn, unchanging, and unwilling to adapt.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
While often used to describe a person's stubborn personality, this phrase also frequently describes systems, rules, or situations that refuse to adapt to new circumstances. It carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the subject is stuck in old ways and failing to keep up with the times. It is more commonly used to critique a lack of flexibility than to describe a person's moral bigotry.
Examples
Don't be so rigid in how you live your life.
His personality is so set in stone, it's hard to persuade him.
Related words
Common phrases
a rigid personality
outdated or inflexible thinking
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 固執, but 固執 focuses on the stubbornness of the person's will, whereas 一成不變 emphasizes the lack of change or adaptation in their methods or mindset.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
