mou4 fei1無非无非
Jyutpingmou4 fei1
Yalemòuh fēi
Definition
Nothing but; only; simply.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
This word carries a slightly critical or dismissive tone, often implying that the speaker has seen through someone's true motives. It is frequently paired with the particle 啫 at the end of the sentence to reinforce the sense of reduction or cynicism. While it functions as a formal adverb in written Chinese, in spoken Cantonese it is used to strip away pretenses and highlight a single, often selfish, underlying cause.
Examples
He did that for no other reason than to make you happy.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a neutral way to say only, but it is specifically used to expose underlying motives or simplify complex situations in a way that suggests the speaker is unimpressed or skeptical.
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.
