leoi5 baai6 leoi5 zin3屢敗屢戰屡败屡战
Definition
To keep on fighting despite continual setbacks; to persevere through failures.
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of resilience and indomitable spirit, often used to describe someone who refuses to give up after repeated disappointments. While it originates from classical Chinese, it is frequently used in modern Cantonese to praise someone's persistence in the face of adversity. It is more formal than simply saying 唔放棄, making it suitable for encouraging others in serious or professional contexts.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of failure, but the core of the phrase is the active, ongoing effort to continue. It is not meant to describe someone who is merely stubborn, but someone who is actively learning and trying again after each setback.
Grammar color guide
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.
