zi2 hou2只好
Jyutpingzi2 hou2
Yalejí hóu
Definition
To have no choice but to; can only; have to.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Expresses a sense of resignation or lack of better options when faced with an undesirable situation. While it functions similarly to 唯有, 只好 often carries a slightly stronger nuance of being forced by circumstances rather than just making a logical choice. It is frequently used when the speaker is disappointed that their preferred plan cannot be carried out.
Examples
He won't answer the phone, so I have no choice but to find someone to help.
There are no seats left, you guys will have to sit outside.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 只能, which focuses more on ability or capacity. Use 只好 when you are describing a forced decision or a compromise, whereas 只能 is better suited for stating a limitation, such as only having a certain amount of money or time.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
