sai6逝
Jyutpingsai6
Yalesaih
Definition
To pass or disappear; to slip away.
writtentimedescriptions
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively found in formal, literary, or poetic contexts rather than everyday speech. It carries a sense of finality and solemnity that makes it unsuitable for describing simple movements or departures. You will rarely hear it outside of written compositions or formal speeches.
Examples
Time has passed away like flowing water.
Her youth faded away with the passing of the years.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a person leaving a room or a place, as it implies a permanent or abstract disappearance rather than a physical exit. Use 走 or 離開 instead for everyday situations.
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.
