wai2 waai6毀壞毁坏
Jyutpingwai2 waai6
Yalewái waaih
Definition
To damage, ruin, or destroy.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the act of causing structural or abstract harm, often implying a sense of permanence or significant loss. While it can apply to physical objects, it is frequently used for intangible concepts like reputations, relationships, or plans. It carries a heavier, more formal weight than the everyday word 整爛.
Examples
He accidentally damaged the computer.
Why did you have to ruin someone else's hard work?
Related words
Common phrases
to ruin a reputation
to vandalize public property
Common mistake
Learners often use 毀壞 for minor accidents where 整爛 is more natural. Use 毀壞 when the damage is severe or involves abstract concepts rather than just breaking a small household item.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
