seoi1 mong4衰亡
Jyutpingseoi1 mong4
Yalesēui mòhng
Definition
To decline, perish, or go down to ruin.
writtenother
How it's used
Focuses on the inevitable process of decay or loss of vitality, often applied to large entities like empires, industries, or historical eras. It carries a formal and somewhat grave tone, making it less suitable for describing minor setbacks or temporary downturns. Use it when discussing long-term historical trends or significant systemic collapses.
Examples
The economy of this old district is gradually declining.
If they do not reform, the company will decline sooner or later.
Related words
Common phrases
heading towards decline
accelerating the decline
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to describe personal health or minor business losses, as it sounds overly dramatic and literary. For everyday situations like a business failing, use 執笠 or 倒閉 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
