pin1 lei4偏離偏离
Jyutpingpin1 lei4
Yalepīn lèih
Definition
To deviate or diverge slightly from a plan, trajectory, or course of action.
neutralworkother
How it's used
Focuses on the act of drifting away from a set path, standard, or expectation. It is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as discussing project management, data analysis, or navigation, rather than casual conversation. When describing physical movement or literal paths, it carries a slightly more technical nuance than simply saying 走歪咗.
Examples
His plan deviated from the original goal.
Why did your approach deviate from the instructions?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use this to mean simply changing one's mind, but it specifically implies a departure from a pre-established trajectory or rule. Avoid using it for minor, inconsequential changes where 唔同咗 is more natural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
