wai4 pei4為皮为皮
Jyutpingwai4 pei4
Yalewàih pèih
Definition
To break even; to balance the budget with no profit and no loss.
colloquialmoneywork
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the state of breaking even, where income matches expenditure exactly. It carries a slightly weary or resigned tone, often used when someone is relieved they are not losing money but disappointed they are not making a profit. It is frequently used in the context of small businesses or personal financial management.
Examples
Business was mediocre this month, barely enough to break even.
Related words
Common phrases
barely breaking even
just managed to break even
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with making a profit. Using it to describe a successful or lucrative venture is incorrect, as it strictly implies a zero-sum financial outcome.
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.
