pou5 fu6抱負抱负
Jyutpingpou5 fu6
Yalepóuh fuh
Definition
Aspiration, ambition, or hope for future achievements.
neutralworkother
How it's used
This term carries a formal and serious tone, often used in professional, academic, or political contexts to describe long-term goals. It implies a sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to society rather than just personal gain. You will rarely hear it in casual, everyday small talk about trivial plans.
Examples
He has had great aspirations since he was a child.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 夢想, but 夢想 is broader and can refer to any dream or fantasy, whereas 抱負 specifically emphasizes a sense of purpose and the drive to achieve something significant.
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.
