seoi2 jyu5 gaau1 jung4水乳交融
Jyutpingseoi2 jyu5 gaau1 jung4
Yaleséui yúh gāau yùhng
Definition
To be in complete harmony, usually describing couples or close partners.
writtenemotionpeople
How it's used
This idiom is a formal literary expression that sounds quite sophisticated when used in spoken Cantonese. It is typically reserved for describing the deep, inseparable bond between romantic partners rather than general friendships. Because it carries a slightly poetic or elegant tone, it is often used to emphasize a state of perfect mutual understanding or intimacy.
Examples
The two of them have such a harmonious relationship.
Which couple can maintain such perfect harmony forever?
Related words
Common phrases
a relationship in perfect harmony
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe general agreement between colleagues or friends, but it is specifically associated with romantic or intimate relationships. Using it in a professional or casual context can sound overly dramatic or misplaced.
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.
