meng6

Jyutpingmeng6
Yalemehng
語素Common

Definition

Life; a living being or individual.

neutralpeopleother

How it's used

Refers to both the biological state of being alive and the abstract concept of destiny or fate. When used in the context of fate, it often carries a fatalistic tone, implying that certain outcomes are predetermined. It is frequently paired with adjectives like 大 to describe someone who is resilient or lucky in the face of danger.

Measure word

tiu4tìuh

Examples

He is really lucky to survive, he is fine even after that.
Do you know that saving a life is more virtuous than building a seven-story pagoda?

Common phrases

to lose one's life
lucky to survive

Common mistake

Do not confuse 命 with 身體, which refers to the physical body. While 命 is used for life as a concept or fate, 身體 is used when discussing health or physical condition.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector