me1 soeng5 san1孭上身

Jyutpingme1 soeng5 san1

Yalemē séuhng sān

Definition

To take on a responsibility; to shoulder a burden.

colloquialdaily actionswork

How it's used

Literally referring to carrying something on one's back, this phrase is used metaphorically to describe taking on a burden or responsibility, often one that is unwanted or heavy. It implies a sense of personal sacrifice or being stuck with a problem that was not necessarily yours to begin with. It carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the person is being overly responsible or foolishly taking on extra trouble.

Examples

le1呢daan1單je5嘢nei5你m4唔hou2好me1孭soeng5上san1身aa4呀。

Don't take responsibility for this matter yourself.

dim2點gaai2解nei5你jiu3要me1孭soeng5上san1身gam3咁san1辛fu2苦？

Why do you have to take this on and make it so hard for yourself?

Common phrases

me1孭fei1飛

to be the main person responsible for a project or outcome

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for simply taking on a task, but it specifically implies a burden or a negative consequence. Avoid using it for positive responsibilities like taking on a new project at work unless you mean it will be a heavy, difficult load.