pei4 paa4 bit6 pou5琵琶別抱琵琶别抱
Jyutpingpei4 paa4 bit6 pou5
Yalepèih pàh biht póuh
Definition
To abandon a spouse or lover to marry or go for someone else.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Originating from a historical story about a musician, this idiom carries a slightly literary or dramatic tone. It is used to describe a romantic betrayal where one party shifts their affection to a new person. While it can be used in casual conversation, it often implies a sense of disappointment or moral judgment regarding the change in partner.
Examples
They had been dating for so long, who knew she would eventually leave him for someone else.
Related words
Common phrases
to unexpectedly leave one's partner for another
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe changing jobs or hobbies, as it is strictly reserved for romantic relationships. Using it in other contexts will sound confusing or overly poetic in a way that does not fit the situation.
Grammar color guide
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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.
