joeng4 mou4 ceot1 zoi6 joeng4 san1 soeng6羊毛出在羊身上
Jyutpingjoeng4 mou4 ceot1 zoi6 joeng4 san1 soeng6
Yaleyèuhng mòuh chēut joih yèuhng sān seuhng
Definition
Nothing is truly free; what appears to be a benefit is actually paid for by oneself.
colloquialmoneyother
How it's used
This idiom is frequently invoked when someone suspects a hidden cost behind a seemingly generous offer or a discount. It serves as a cynical reminder that resources do not appear out of thin air and that the cost of any benefit is ultimately borne by the recipient. It is a staple in discussions about business tactics, marketing schemes, or political promises.
Grammar color guide
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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.
