se2 san1 tou4 bou3捨身圖報舍身图报
Jyutpingse2 san1 tou4 bou3
Yalesé sān tòuh bou
Definition
To repay a favor even at the cost of one's own life.
writtenpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a heavy, dramatic weight often found in wuxia novels or historical dramas. It implies a level of loyalty that goes beyond simple gratitude, suggesting a willingness to face death to settle a debt of kindness. Using this in casual conversation sounds overly theatrical or ironic.
Examples
He was willing to sacrifice his life to repay the favor.
Do you really need to sacrifice yourself to repay the favor? Is it worth it?
Related words
Common phrases
the kindness that demands a life-sacrificing repayment
Common mistake
Avoid using this for minor favors like buying someone a coffee or helping with a small task. It is reserved for life changing acts of benevolence where the recipient feels a profound, existential obligation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
