tin4 meng6填命
Jyutpingtin4 meng6
Yaletìhn mehng
Definition
To pay for a crime or mistake with one's life.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a heavy, dramatic tone often associated with intense conflict, debt, or extreme consequences. It functions as a hyperbolic expression for taking ultimate responsibility for a catastrophic error, rather than literally meaning to commit suicide as a form of payment. It is frequently used in arguments or when describing situations where someone has caused irreparable harm.
Examples
You caused such a huge mess, how are you going to pay for it with your life?
Related words
Common phrases
to pay with one's life
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual contexts or minor mistakes, as it implies a life-or-death situation. It is not a standard term for financial compensation or general apologies.
Grammar color guide
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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.
