jiu2 zit3夭折
Jyutpingjiu2 zit3
Yaleyíu jit
Definition
To die at an early age, or to fail or be abandoned at an early stage.
- to die at a very early age; to suffer a premature death
- figurativeto fail, terminate, or be abandoned at an early stage
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
While primarily used for the tragic death of infants, this term is frequently applied metaphorically to projects, ideas, or business ventures that fail before they can properly get off the ground. It carries a sense of abruptness and unfulfilled potential. When referring to people, it is a formal and solemn term that is rarely used in casual conversation to describe a specific person's death.
Examples
Medical care was poor back then, so many infants died prematurely.
The plan failed at the very beginning, it is such a pity.
Related words
Common phrases
unfortunately died prematurely
a plan failing at an early stage
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe the death of an adult or an elderly person, as it specifically implies a life cut short before its natural time. For general death, use 離世 or 過身 instead.
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.
