pei4 jyu1 ban1 ming6疲於奔命疲于奔命
Jyutpingpei4 jyu1 ban1 ming6
Yalepèih yū bān mihng
Definition
Exhausted and worn out from constantly running around or dealing with too many demanding tasks.
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How it's used
This idiom describes a state of being overwhelmed by constant, demanding tasks that leave no time for rest. It carries a sense of being trapped in a cycle of endless errands or work obligations. While it is a formal idiom, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to emphasize the sheer intensity of a busy schedule.
Examples
The recent workload has left me completely exhausted.
Related words
Common phrases
a life of constant running around
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simply being tired, but it specifically implies being forced into constant activity by external pressures or a heavy workload. It is not used to describe physical exhaustion from exercise or lack of sleep alone.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
