teoi3 bing1退兵
Jyutpingteoi3 bing1
Yaleteui bīng
Definition
To retreat or withdraw troops.
neutralother
How it's used
Used primarily in historical, military, or strategic contexts, this term carries a formal weight that makes it sound out of place in modern daily conversation. It implies a deliberate, organized withdrawal rather than a chaotic flight or simple departure. When discussing everyday situations like leaving a party or quitting a task, use 走人 or 離開 instead.
Examples
The general ordered a retreat, stop fighting now.
Why haven't they retreated yet?
Related words
Common phrases
to order a retreat
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to mean leaving a place in a casual sense, but it is strictly reserved for military or competitive scenarios where one is pulling back from a conflict.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
