zi1 zuk1知足
Jyutpingzi1 zuk1
Yalejī jūk
Definition
Contented, satisfied, and not constantly wanting more.
neutralemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Often used in the context of moral advice or personal philosophy, this word carries a sense of wisdom regarding one's own desires. It frequently appears in the four character idiom 知足常樂, which serves as a common life motto for many people. Unlike simply being happy with an outcome, it implies a conscious decision to stop chasing more.
Examples
One must learn to be content in order to live happily.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse it with 滿足, which is a broader term for feeling satisfied. While 滿足 can describe a temporary feeling after a good meal or a completed task, 知足 specifically refers to a character trait or a mindset of not being greedy.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
