jim5 soeng5染上
Jyutpingjim5 soeng5
Yaleyíhm séuhng
Definition
To contract an illness, or to develop a bad habit or addiction.
colloquialhealthdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the negative acquisition of something, such as a disease, a vice, or a bad habit. It implies a process of becoming tainted or affected by an undesirable state. Unlike simple verbs for catching a cold, this carries a slightly more serious or permanent connotation regarding the onset of the condition.
Examples
He recently picked up a bad habit.
How did you end up catching this illness?
Related words
Common phrases
to pick up a bad habit
to become addicted to drugs
Common mistake
Avoid using this for positive traits or skills, as it is strictly reserved for negative or harmful things. Do not confuse it with 感染, which is more clinical and often used in formal contexts for viruses or bacteria.
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.
