juk1 min5勗勉勖勉
Jyutpingjuk1 min5
Yaleyūk míhn
Definition
To encourage, advise, or motivate someone to work hard.
writtencommunication
How it's used
This term is formal and typically appears in written contexts, speeches, or official correspondence rather than casual daily conversation. It carries a sense of earnest, high-minded encouragement, often from a person in a position of authority or seniority to those they are mentoring. Using it in a casual setting with friends can sound overly dramatic or stiff.
Examples
The teacher encouraged the students to study hard.
He encouraged us not to give up on our dreams.
Related words
Common phrases
to encourage someone greatly
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb like 鼓勵, but 勗勉 is much more literary and restricted to formal registers. It is rarely used in spoken Cantonese, where 鼓勵 or 打氣 are the standard choices.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
