mou6 bit1務必务必
Jyutpingmou6 bit1
Yalemouh bīt
Definition
Must by all means; to be absolutely sure to do something.
writtenworkcommunication
How it's used
Carries a formal and authoritative tone, often used in professional settings or when giving serious instructions. It implies that the action is not just a suggestion but a mandatory requirement that cannot be ignored. While it functions as an adverb, it is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation between friends, where speakers would prefer using一定要 instead.
Examples
You must make sure to hand the report back to me by tomorrow.
This matter is very important, you must ensure you get it done for me.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use it in casual social situations where it sounds overly stiff or demanding, like a boss speaking to a subordinate. It is not suitable for expressing personal desires or casual plans.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
