zaan2 seoi1賺衰赚衰
Jyutpingzaan2 seoi1
Yalejáan sēui
Definition
To bring bad luck upon oneself through one's own actions.
colloquialotherpeople
How it's used
This expression implies a self-inflicted curse or misfortune caused by one's own poor choices or negative speech. It carries a superstitious weight, suggesting that certain actions or words can actively attract bad luck. It is frequently used when someone warns another person that their behavior is counterproductive or inviting disaster.
Examples
You keep saying things like that, you are really bringing bad luck upon yourself.
Related words
Common phrases
to bring bad luck upon oneself
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 倒霉, which describes the state of being unlucky. 賺衰 is an active verb phrase focusing on the cause of the bad luck, whereas 倒霉 is an adjective describing the result.
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.
