jau5 sam1 mou4 lik6有心無力有心无力
Jyutpingjau5 sam1 mou4 lik6
Yaleyáuh sām mòuh lihk
Definition
To have the desire to do something, but lack the ability, strength, or time to achieve it.
colloquialemotiondaily actions
How it's used
This expression is frequently used to politely decline a request or to express regret over an inability to fulfill a commitment. It carries a sense of genuine empathy, emphasizing that the intention is positive even if the outcome is not possible. It is often followed by the particle 啫 to soften the tone and emphasize the limitation.
Examples
I want to help you, but I really lack the ability to do so.
Related words
Common phrases
really lack the ability to do it
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal physical disability, but it is primarily used for situational constraints like lack of time, money, or resources. It is not appropriate to use this when you simply do not want to do something, as that would be insincere.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
