maai6 lik6賣力卖力
Jyutpingmaai6 lik6
Yalemaaih lihk
Definition
To spare no effort; to exert all one's strength and work as hard as possible.
colloquialworkdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the intensity and dedication put into a task rather than just the act of working. It often implies a sense of enthusiasm or genuine commitment, making it a positive descriptor for someone's work ethic. While it can be used for physical labor, it is frequently applied to office work or any project requiring sustained focus.
Examples
He works very hard, and his boss appreciates him.
Do you really need to work that hard? Take a break.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 賣命, which carries a much stronger and often negative connotation of risking one's life or sacrificing one's health for a job.
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.
