mong4 jan1 fu6 ji6忘恩負義忘恩负义
Jyutpingmong4 jan1 fu6 ji6
Yalemòhng yān fuh yih
Definition
To be utterly ungrateful; to betray a benefactor's kindness.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a very strong moral condemnation and is typically reserved for serious betrayals of trust rather than minor lapses in politeness. It is often used in formal contexts or when someone is being scolded for a major act of disloyalty toward a benefactor. Because it is a four character idiom, it sounds more severe and deliberate than simply saying someone is not grateful.
Examples
He has helped you so much, don't be ungrateful.
Why would he do something so ungrateful?
Related words
Common phrases
an ungrateful person
behavior that is ungrateful
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for being impolite or forgetting to say thank you. It is far more serious and implies a deep, personal betrayal of someone who has provided significant help or support.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
