tau4 on3 zi6 sau2投案自首
Jyutpingtau4 on3 zi6 sau2
Yaletàuh on jih sáu
Definition
To turn oneself in to the police; to surrender oneself.
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How it's used
This phrase is primarily used in formal, legal, or news contexts rather than casual daily conversation. While it describes the act of surrendering to authorities, it carries a heavy, serious tone associated with criminal proceedings. Using it in a lighthearted or non-legal situation would sound overly dramatic or ironic.
Examples
He decided to go to the police station to turn himself in.
Related words
Common phrases
go to the police station to turn oneself in
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a casual way to admit a mistake, but it specifically refers to surrendering to the police for a crime. Do not use it when simply confessing to a minor personal error like breaking a plate or being late.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
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Adverb
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
