sei2 sei2 hei3死死氣死死气
Jyutpingsei2 sei2 hei3
Yaleséi séi hei
Definition
Dejectedly, dispiritedly, or reluctantly, typically after being scolded or facing defeat.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This expression captures the specific body language of someone who has been deflated by a setback or a lecture. It implies a lack of resistance and a reluctant acceptance of the situation, often accompanied by a slumped posture or a quiet demeanor. It is almost exclusively used to describe someone who has lost their usual confidence or bravado after being put in their place.
Examples
After being scolded by the boss, he packed his things and left in defeat.
Related words
Common phrases
in a defeated manner
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being sad or depressed. It specifically requires a preceding context of being forced to yield, usually after a confrontation or a failed attempt to argue one's case.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
