tiu4 meng6 m4 zeng3條命唔正条命唔正
Jyutpingtiu4 meng6 m4 zeng3
Yaletìuh mehng m̀h jeng
Definition
To have an unlucky fate or destiny, particularly by being born into a poor family or background.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This phrase carries a fatalistic tone, reflecting the traditional belief in destiny or fate. It is often used to explain why someone has had to struggle or face hardships from a young age. While it specifically refers to one's background, it implies that these circumstances are beyond an individual's control.
Examples
He was born into a poor family and couldn't get an education.
You think he comes from a poor background, but he actually works very hard.
Related words
Common phrases
Born into a poor background, relying on oneself
Common mistake
Avoid using this phrase to describe someone's current financial status or a temporary setback, as it specifically refers to the circumstances of one's birth and upbringing. Using it to describe a wealthy person who lost money would sound incorrect and insensitive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
