ngaang6 sik6硬食
Jyutpingngaang6 sik6
Yalengaahng sihk
Definition
To be forced to accept or endure something with no choice but to bite the bullet.
colloquialdaily actionswork
How it's used
Originating from the idea of forcing oneself to eat something unpalatable, this term implies a sense of resignation when facing unavoidable negative consequences. It is frequently used in professional or social contexts where one must accept blame, financial loss, or an unpleasant task without complaint. The tone is distinctly cynical, highlighting the lack of agency the speaker feels in the situation.
Examples
We have no choice but to bite the bullet and take this loss-making deal.
You messed up, how are you going to deal with the consequences this time?
Related words
Common phrases
to take all the blame or consequences
to bite the bullet and face the consequences
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literally eating something hard, like a rock or stale bread. It is strictly metaphorical and always refers to accepting a difficult or unfair situation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
