lai6 hang4 gung1 si6例行公事
Jyutpinglai6 hang4 gung1 si6
Yalelaih hàhng gūng sih
Definition
Routine business; a matter of routine or a tedious, repetitive chore.
colloquialwork
How it's used
Often carries a slightly cynical or dismissive tone, implying that the task is performed mechanically without genuine interest or necessity. It is frequently used to describe bureaucratic procedures or repetitive workplace tasks that feel like a waste of time.
Examples
These meetings are just a matter of routine.
Related words
Common phrases
to treat as a matter of routine
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a personal habit or a daily hobby, as it specifically refers to formal or professional procedures that feel mandatory and uninspired.
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.
