zi1 lei4 po3 seoi3支離破碎支离破碎
Jyutpingzi1 lei4 po3 seoi3
Yalejī lèih po seui
Definition
Fragmented, broken up, and incomplete; falling apart.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Used primarily to describe abstract concepts like plans, arguments, or family structures rather than literal physical objects. It carries a strong sense of disorder and lack of cohesion, implying that the pieces no longer fit together to form a functional whole. While it can describe physical damage, it is far more common in professional or critical contexts to highlight structural failure.
Examples
His plan ended up in total disarray.
Why is your report written in such a fragmented way?
Related words
Common phrases
a broken home
fragmented memories
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple synonym of 爛, but 爛 implies physical breakage while 支離破碎 implies a loss of logical or structural integrity.
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.
