song3 meng6喪命丧命
Jyutpingsong3 meng6
Yalesong mehng
Definition
To lose one's life, especially due to accidents, disasters, or causes other than illness.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
This term carries a heavy, dramatic tone and is almost exclusively reserved for tragic or violent circumstances like accidents, disasters, or war. It is not used to describe death from natural causes or old age, which would typically be referred to as 過身 or 走咗. Because of its intensity, it is frequently found in news reports or formal storytelling rather than casual daily chatter.
Examples
He unfortunately lost his life in that car accident.
Related words
Common phrases
unfortunately lose one's life
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone passing away peacefully in a hospital, as it implies a sudden, often violent or avoidable end. Using it for natural death sounds bizarre and overly sensational.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
