pui4 seoi2賠水赔水
Jyutpingpui4 seoi2
Yalepùih séui
Definition
To pay back money to compensate for damages or losses.
colloquialmoney
How it's used
Water is a common slang metaphor for money in Cantonese, originating from the idea that money flows like water. Using this term implies a slightly informal or even cynical tone, often used when discussing legal settlements, damages, or paying someone off to avoid further trouble. It is rarely used in formal contracts or professional correspondence.
Examples
You broke someone's phone, of course you have to pay for it.
You caused them so much trouble, how can you explain yourself without paying compensation?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal business or legal settings, as it sounds dismissive or disrespectful. Stick to 賠償 when you need to be taken seriously.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
