YumChaYumCha
BlogGrammarDictionaryJyutpingLearn on webGet the app
BlogLearn on webGrammarDictionary
Get the app
  1. Home
  2. /Cantonese dictionary
  3. /Browse: M
  4. /無功而返

mou4 gung1 ji4 faan2無功而返无功而返

Jyutpingmou4 gung1 ji4 faan2
Yalemòuh gūng yìh fán

Definition

To return without any achievement (idiom); to go home with one's tail between one's legs

Tone guide

T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
YumCha mascot reading

Learn this word in context

Practice Cantonese with bite-sized lessons in the YumCha app.

Download on the App Store

More words

m4 sai2 geng1
唔使驚唔使惊
no need to be scared
ming4 loeng6 ci4
名量詞名量词
nominal classifier (in Chinese grammar)
mou5 si1
舞獅舞狮
lion dance (traditional Chinese dance form)
maa5 lo4
馬騾马骡
mule
maang5 gung1
猛攻
to attack violently
mou5 si4
冇時冇时
no fixed time
Browse all words starting with M

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.
  • NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
  • 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.
Browse all grammar topics →

Learn more on the YumCha blog

  • Cantonese Duolingo alternativeIs there a Cantonese Duolingo alternative?
  • Heritage speakers learning CantoneseLearn Cantonese Chinese: a guide for heritage speakers
  • Jyutping vs Yale: which Cantonese romanization should you learn?Jyutping vs Yale: which Cantonese romanization should you learn?
  • How to learn Cantonese for free in 2026How to learn Cantonese for free in 2026

On this page

  • Definition
  • Tones
  • More words
Jyutping
mou4 gung1 ji4 faan2
Yale
mòuh gūng yìh fán
Get the app

YumCha

Master Cantonese with bite-sized lessons

Learn

BlogComplete guideDictionaryJyutping converter

App

Download

Follow

X (Twitter)

Company

AboutFAQContact us

Legal

Privacy policyTerms of service

© 2026 YumCha. All rights reserved.