zi2 baau1 m4 zyu6 fo2紙包唔住火纸包唔住火
Jyutpingzi2 baau1 m4 zyu6 fo2
Yalejí bāau m̀h jyuh fó
Definition
Secrets cannot be kept forever.
colloquialother
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used to warn someone that their attempts to conceal a mistake or a lie will inevitably fail. It carries a sense of urgency and moral advice, often serving as a prompt for the listener to confess before the truth is revealed by external circumstances. Unlike formal idioms, it fits naturally into casual, serious conversations between friends or colleagues.
Examples
You can't hide it forever, you'd better speak up sooner.
Related words
Common phrases
the truth will out
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
