sau1 kiu4 zing2 lou6修橋整路修桥整路
Jyutpingsau1 kiu4 zing2 lou6
Yalesāu kìuh jíng louh
Definition
To build bridges and repair roads; to perform good deeds and acts of charity.
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How it's used
Originally referring to physical infrastructure projects, this phrase has evolved into a metaphorical expression for performing charitable acts or contributing to the public good. It carries a sense of moral weight and altruism, often used to praise someone who goes out of their way to help others. You will hear it used both literally when discussing historical public works and figuratively to describe someone's generous character.
Examples
He is always doing good deeds like building bridges and repairing roads.
You are so kind, you are practically doing good deeds for the community.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe minor favors or simple acts of kindness, as it implies a significant or selfless contribution that benefits the wider community.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
