tin1 ji3天意
Jyutpingtin1 ji3
Yaletīn yi
Definition
Heaven's will; fate or destiny that cannot be controlled by humans.
neutralother
How it's used
Refers to events that feel beyond human control, often carrying a sense of resignation or fatalism. It is frequently invoked when something unexpected or unfortunate happens, suggesting that the outcome was predetermined by a higher power rather than human error.
Examples
Everything is God's will, we have no way to change it.
Related words
Common phrases
to follow the will of heaven
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple bad luck or minor inconveniences, as it carries a weight of cosmic inevitability that can sound overly dramatic in trivial situations.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
