kam1 gai3襟計襟计
Jyutpingkam1 gai3
Yalekām gai
Definition
Expensive or incurring a substantial cost when calculated over the long run.
colloquialmoney
How it's used
Focuses on the cumulative financial burden of an item or decision over time rather than just the initial price tag. It is frequently used as a warning to consider hidden costs like maintenance, electricity, or daily upkeep. The term implies a sense of caution, suggesting that something might seem affordable now but will eventually drain your wallet.
Examples
The maintenance cost for this car is so high, it really adds up.
Have you thought carefully about whether this designer bag is worth the long-term cost?
Related words
Common phrases
very expensive in the long run
not expensive in the long run
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin word 經濟, which means economy or economical. In Cantonese, 襟計 specifically highlights the long-term cost burden, whereas 經濟 is a formal term for the economy or being budget-friendly.
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.
