pau2 sam1剖心
Jyutpingpau2 sam1
Yalepáu sām
Definition
To speak honestly and openly from one's heart.
colloquialemotioncommunication
How it's used
Carries a sense of emotional vulnerability and sincerity that goes beyond simple honesty. It implies a deliberate choice to reveal deep, private thoughts or feelings that are usually kept hidden. Often used in serious or dramatic contexts where trust is being established or tested.
Examples
He finally agreed to speak from the heart and tell me the truth today.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal anatomical dissection, as the phrase is purely metaphorical. It is not used for casual honesty but rather for significant, soul-baring revelations.
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.
