sau1 saan1收山
Jyutpingsau1 saan1
Yalesāu sāan
Definition
To retire; to withdraw from the front line of work.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Originally used in the context of martial arts or criminal underworld activities to signify stepping away from a life of fighting or illicit work. It carries a slightly dramatic or definitive tone compared to the standard term 退休, which is more neutral and formal. It is now frequently applied to anyone leaving a long-term career or a specific field of expertise permanently.
Examples
He has worked for so many years and has finally decided to retire.
When are you planning to retire and stop doing business?
Related words
Common phrases
officially retire
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a simple vacation or a short break from work. It implies a permanent or long-term cessation of one's primary career or trade.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
