zi6 laap6自立
Jyutpingzi6 laap6
Yalejih laahp
Definition
To be independent, self-reliant, or stand on one's own feet.
neutralpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the transition to adulthood and the ability to manage one's own life without financial or emotional support from parents. It carries a sense of maturity and responsibility that goes beyond simple independence. It is often used by parents to encourage children to stop being dependent.
Examples
He needs to learn to stand on his own feet now that he is older, don't rely on family all the time.
When will you finally be independent and move out to live on your own?
Related words
Common phrases
to set up one's own business or household
to learn how to be independent
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 獨立, which is a broader term for independence in terms of thinking or political status. 自立 specifically emphasizes the act of supporting oneself through one's own efforts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
