zi6 zok3 zi6 sau6自作自受
Jyutpingzi6 zok3 zi6 sau6
Yalejih jok jih sauh
Definition
To suffer the consequences of one's own actions; to reap what one sows.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of moral judgment or schadenfreude, implying that the person deserves their negative outcome. It is frequently used to shut down complaints from someone who ignored advice or acted maliciously. Unlike neutral descriptions of bad luck, this specifically highlights the causal link between the person's own past actions and their current suffering.
Examples
You brought this on yourself, don't ask anyone for help.
He cheated people out of money and ended up in jail, he really brought it on himself.
Related words
Common phrases
really brought it on oneself
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply unlucky or a victim of external circumstances, as it explicitly blames the person for their own misfortune.
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.
