sik1 mei4式微
Jyutpingsik1 mei4
Yalesīk mèih
Definition
To decline gradually, typically used in reference to culture, customs, or industries.
writtenother
How it's used
Focuses on the slow, inevitable fading of abstract concepts like traditions, industries, or cultural practices rather than physical objects. It carries a slightly formal or literary weight, making it sound more sophisticated than simply saying 衰落 or 冇落。 It is often used in analytical or reflective contexts when discussing historical trends or societal shifts.
Examples
This kind of traditional craft is already gradually declining.
Why is this industry declining so quickly?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a person's health or a sudden collapse, as it specifically implies a long-term, gradual process of losing influence or vitality.
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.
