sik1惜

Jyutpingsik1

Yalesīk

Rare

Definition

Of a past time; also used to express regret or 'too bad'.

literaryold or past, as in a former period of time
too bad; unfortunately

colloquialtimedescriptions

How it's used

The usage of 惜 as an adverb meaning "too bad" or "pity" is often interchangeable with 可惜 in casual speech. While 惜日 refers to the past, it carries a slightly literary or nostalgic tone compared to the more common 舊時. When used as an adverb, it functions as a sentence starter to express regret about a specific situation.

Examples

sik1惜jat6日ge3嘅hou2好si4時gwong1光，zan1真hai6係hou2好naan4難mong4忘。

The good times of the past are truly unforgettable.

sik1惜keoi5佢m4唔hai2喺dou6度，m4唔hai6係zau6就jyun4完mei5美laa3喇。

It's a pity he's not here, otherwise it would be perfect.

Common phrases

sik1惜jat6日

the old days

Common mistake

Learners often confuse 惜 with 錫, which is a common Cantonese verb meaning to love or to kiss. Ensure you do not use 錫 when you intend to express regret or refer to the past.