san1 fu2 wan2 lei4 zi3 zoi6 sik6辛苦搵嚟志在食辛苦揾嚟志在食
Jyutpingsan1 fu2 wan2 lei4 zi3 zoi6 sik6
Yalesān fú wán lèih ji joih sihk
Definition
One works hard just to be able to eat well.
colloquialfoodwork
How it's used
This phrase captures the pragmatic and food-centric philosophy of many Hong Kongers who view hard work primarily as a means to enjoy quality meals. It is often used as a self-deprecating or lighthearted justification for spending a significant portion of one's salary on dining out. The rhythm of the phrase makes it a common retort when someone questions why you are working so hard or spending money on expensive food.
Examples
I work so hard every day just to eat well.
Related words
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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.
