zeon6 jan4 si6盡人事尽人事
Jyutpingzeon6 jan4 si6
Yalejeuhn yàhn sih
Definition
To try one's best, especially when helping or saving someone.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Often carries a sense of resignation or finality, frequently appearing in contexts where the outcome is uncertain or potentially tragic. It implies that while human effort has been exhausted, the final result may still be out of one's control. It is distinct from general hard work because it specifically relates to fulfilling a duty or moral obligation toward someone in need.
Examples
The doctor said they did their best, but they couldn't save him.
Please try your best to help him, after all, he is a relative.
Related words
Common phrases
do one's best and leave the rest to fate
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general hard work, but it is specifically reserved for situations involving helping or saving others. Using it to describe working hard on a personal project or studying for an exam sounds unnatural.
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.
