lei4 hei3離棄离弃
Jyutpinglei4 hei3
Yalelèih hei
Definition
To abandon or forsake a person, place, or job.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a strong emotional weight, often implying a sense of betrayal or a moral failing. While it can be used for jobs or places, it is most frequently applied to interpersonal relationships where there is an expectation of loyalty or care. It sounds significantly more formal and serious than using plain verbs like 掉低 or 唔理.
Examples
Why did he have to abandon such a good job?
Even if the whole world abandons you, I will still support you.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for inanimate objects like a broken umbrella or a piece of trash. For physical items you simply throw away or leave behind, use 掉低 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
