sau1 sing4 zing3 gwo2修成正果
Definition
To achieve Buddhahood through practice, or figuratively, to attain a successful outcome after sustained effort.
- literaryto achieve Buddhahood or enlightenment through spiritual practice
- figurativeto attain a successful outcome or bear fruit after sustained effort
How it's used
Originally a Buddhist term referring to the attainment of enlightenment, this phrase is now widely used in secular contexts to describe any long-term endeavor that reaches a successful conclusion. It is most commonly applied to romantic relationships that lead to marriage after a long period of dating. The tone is formal yet positive, often used to express admiration for the perseverance required to reach a goal.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe short-term successes or trivial achievements, as the phrase implies a significant passage of time and considerable effort. It is not suitable for describing simple tasks like finishing a homework assignment or buying a new gadget.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
