wai4 si4 ji5 maan5為時已晚为时已晚
Jyutpingwai4 si4 ji5 maan5
Yalewàih sìh yíh máahn
Definition
Too late; the time has already passed to change the outcome of a situation.
writtentimedescriptions
How it's used
This is a formal idiom often used in news reports or serious discussions to describe a situation where an opportunity has been missed. While it is a four-character phrase, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to add a sense of finality or regret to a statement. It functions as a predicate and is often followed by a particle like 喇 to emphasize the sense of closure.
Examples
It is probably too late for you to apologize now.
Even if you want to fix it, it is too late; the outcome cannot be changed.
Related words
Common phrases
I am afraid it is already too late
a remedy that is too late
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
