sau4 jan4仇人
Jyutpingsau4 jan4
Yalesàuh yàhn
Definition
An enemy or foe; a person who has wronged someone to the point of causing deep resentment or hatred.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This term carries a heavy emotional weight, implying a deep, personal grudge that often spans years or even generations. It is far more specific and intense than simply disliking someone or being a rival. People typically use it when describing someone who has committed a significant betrayal or act of harm that demands a sense of justice or retribution.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is my enemy, I will never forgive him in my life.
Why do you want to work with your enemy?
Related words
Common phrases
enemy who killed one's father
to take revenge and wash away a grudge
Common mistake
Do not use this word for professional rivals or people you simply disagree with. Using it for a minor conflict sounds overly dramatic and unnatural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.



