m4 bei2唔畀
Jyutpingm4 bei2
Yalem̀h béi
Definition
To forbid, disallow, or refuse to give.
- to not allow; to forbid; to prohibit
- to refuse to give; to not hand over
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Expresses a firm denial of permission or access. It is the standard way to say 'forbid' or 'not allow' in casual speech, functioning as a direct negation of 畀. When used with objects, it often implies a sense of restriction or blocking someone from an action.
Examples
Why won't you let him come in?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 唔俾, which is just a variant character for the same word; both are acceptable, but 畀 is more common in traditional writing.
Grammar color guide
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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.
