seoi1 joek6衰弱
Jyutpingseoi1 joek6
Yalesēui yeuhk
Definition
To weaken, decline, or deteriorate.
neutralhealthdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on a process of losing strength or vitality rather than a permanent state of being weak. It is commonly applied to abstract concepts like national power or economic conditions, as well as physical health. When describing a person's physical state, it often implies a noticeable deterioration from a previous, healthier condition.
Examples
Their health has been very weak lately, they are always sick.
The economy is in decline, many companies have closed down.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 虛弱, which describes a state of being frail or delicate, often used for someone who is naturally weak or recovering from illness, whereas 衰弱 implies a downward trend or loss of former strength.
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.
