san4 sin1 naan4 gau3神仙難救神仙难救
Jyutpingsan4 sin1 naan4 gau3
Yalesàhn sīn nàahn gau
Definition
Beyond redemption; past saving, such that even a deity or immortal cannot help.
colloquialother
How it's used
Emphasize the hopelessness of a situation by invoking the idea that even divine intervention is insufficient. It is frequently applied to dire financial losses, terminal illnesses, or irreparable mistakes. The phrase carries a dramatic, slightly fatalistic tone that is common in casual conversation when describing a situation that has passed the point of no return.
Examples
He is so sick that even the gods cannot save him.
This company is losing so much money that it is beyond saving.
Related words
Common phrases
truly beyond saving
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe minor problems or inconveniences, as it implies a total lack of hope. It is specifically reserved for situations where all possible solutions have already been exhausted.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
