oi3 bat1 sik1 sau2愛不釋手爱不释手
Jyutpingoi3 bat1 sik1 sau2
Yaleoi bāt sīk sáu
Definition
To love something so much that one cannot bear to put it down.
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
Although this is a four character idiom, it is frequently used in casual speech to describe a strong attachment to physical objects like gadgets, books, or toys. It carries a slightly more literary or descriptive weight than simply saying 鍾意, making it perfect for emphasizing that someone is physically unable to stop holding or playing with an item.
Examples
After receiving this gift, he really couldn't put it down.
Are you obsessed with this new phone and can't put it down?
Related words
Common phrases
to be unable to put something down
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this for people, but it is strictly reserved for inanimate objects. You cannot say you are愛不釋手 towards a person, as that would sound bizarrely objectifying.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
