saang2 lik6省力
Jyutpingsaang2 lik6
Yalesáang lihk
Definition
Labour-saving; to save effort or use less physical strength.
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
While 省力 is understood in written contexts, native speakers almost exclusively use 慳力 in daily speech. The character 慳 carries the specific sense of being frugal or economical, whether with money, time, or physical exertion. It is a versatile word that feels much more natural than the more formal 省.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse 慳力 with 懶, which means lazy. 慳力 describes a smart or efficient way of doing a task to avoid unnecessary fatigue, whereas 懶 implies a lack of willingness to work or perform a duty.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
