ji1 jin4 gu3 ngo5依然故我
Jyutpingji1 jin4 gu3 ngo5
Yaleyī yìhn gu ngóh
Definition
To remain unchanged in one's mind, attitude, or behavior.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly critical or frustrated tone, often used when someone persists in a negative habit or refuses to adapt despite external pressure or advice. It functions as a formal literary phrase that is frequently dropped into casual speech to emphasize a sense of stubbornness or lack of growth.
Examples
No matter how much he is advised, he won't listen and keeps doing things his own way.
You are still the same as before, you really haven't changed a bit.
Related words
Common phrases
to continue in the same old way
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe physical objects or neutral situations, as it specifically targets a person's character, mindset, or stubborn behavioral patterns.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
