tim2忝

Jyutpingtim2

Yaletím

Definition

To bring shame to; to be ashamed or disgraced.

writtenemotionpeople

How it's used

This word is strictly formal and literary, often appearing in written apologies or humble self-introductions. It carries a sense of unworthiness or being undeserving of a title or position. You will almost never hear it in casual daily conversation, as it sounds archaic and overly modest.

Examples

ngo5我tim2忝wai4為jan4人si1師，zan1真hai6係hou2好caam4慚kwai5愧。

I am ashamed to call myself a teacher.

keoi5佢tim2忝geoi1居gou1高wai2位，daan6但hai6係mou5冇zou6做gwo3過sat6實si6事。

He holds a high position undeservedly but has never done any real work.

Common phrases

tim2忝wai6為

to be unworthy of being

tim2忝geoi1居

to hold a position undeservedly

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a common verb, but it is a formal literary term that requires specific contexts like self-deprecation. Using it in a casual setting will sound extremely unnatural or like you are reciting a classical poem.