maai4 zong3埋葬
Jyutpingmaai4 zong3
Yalemàaih jong
Definition
To bury or entomb a deceased person or animal, typically marking the spot with a tombstone.
writtendaily actionsother
How it's used
While 埋葬 is understood in Cantonese, it is primarily a formal or written term used in news reports or literature. In everyday spoken Cantonese, people almost exclusively use the phrasal verb 埋落去 or simply 埋 to describe the act of burying something in the ground. Using 埋葬 in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or clinical, as if you are reading from a historical document.
Examples
They buried their pet in the backyard.
Is it true that many ancient warriors were buried here?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 埋葬 for burying objects like treasure or toys, but it is strictly reserved for human or animal remains. For burying inanimate objects, use 埋 instead.
Grammar color guide
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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.
