sau1 kwai1收虧收亏
Jyutpingsau1 kwai1
Yalesāu kwāi
Definition
To accept bribes.
colloquialworkmoney
How it's used
Refers specifically to the act of taking illicit payments or kickbacks, often in a professional or official capacity. It carries a strong sense of moral disapproval and is typically used when discussing corruption or unethical conduct in the workplace.
Examples
He has worked for so many years and has never accepted bribes.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 虧, which on its own can mean a financial loss or a physical deficiency. The phrase specifically carries the connotation of corruption rather than just losing money.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
