waan4 zaai3還債还债
Jyutpingwaan4 zaai3
Yalewàahn jaai
Definition
To repay a debt; to pay back what is owed.
colloquialmoneydaily actions
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the act of settling financial obligations, often carrying a heavy or serious tone. It is frequently used in contexts involving personal hardship or the pressure of owing money to others. While it can be used literally, it also appears in figurative contexts regarding emotional or moral obligations.
Examples
He works several jobs just to repay his debts.
When will you finally be willing to pay back what you owe?
Related words
Common phrases
working hard to repay debts
pressure of repaying debts
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 還錢, which is a more general and neutral term for returning money. 還債 implies a formal debt or a significant outstanding balance rather than just a casual repayment of a small loan.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
