seoi1 bin3衰變衰变
Jyutpingseoi1 bin3
Yalesēui bin
Definition
Radioactive decay; the physical or chemical process where an element or elementary particle transforms into another.
neutralother
How it's used
Primarily used in scientific contexts like physics and chemistry to describe the spontaneous transformation of unstable atomic nuclei. Unlike the common colloquial word 衰, which implies bad luck or moral failure, this term is strictly technical and lacks any negative emotional connotation.
Examples
The decay rate of this element is very fast.
Do you know how radioactive materials decay?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the common slang 衰, which means to fail, to be unlucky, or to be bad. Using 衰變 in a social context to describe a person's bad behavior will sound extremely bizarre and confusing to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
