jat1 je6 fu1 cai1 baak3 jat6 jan1一夜夫妻百日恩
Jyutpingjat1 je6 fu1 cai1 baak3 jat6 jan1
Yaleyāt yeh fū chāi baak yaht yān
Definition
Even a brief marriage establishes a long-lasting bond of affection and gratitude, implying couples must treasure their partner.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This idiom is used to urge someone to maintain a sense of compassion or decency towards an ex-partner, even after a relationship has ended. It emphasizes that the intimacy shared in the past creates a lasting moral obligation of mutual respect. It is often invoked during arguments or divorce proceedings to encourage a more amicable separation.
Examples
Even if you are no longer together, you should still show some kindness to your former partner.
Although they have broken up, they still remember the bond they once shared.
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal statement about time, but it is a metaphorical expression about the value of past intimacy. Do not use it to describe a long marriage, as it specifically highlights the lingering connection between people who are no longer together.
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.
