zit3 oi1節哀节哀
Jyutpingzit3 oi1
Yalejit ōi
Definition
To restrain or overcome one's grief, especially to express condolences to the bereaved.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
Used almost exclusively in the fixed phrase 節哀順變 when offering condolences to someone who has recently lost a loved one. It functions as a formal yet compassionate way to acknowledge grief while encouraging the person to accept the reality of the situation. While it is a standard expression, it carries a heavy, solemn tone and is not used in casual conversation outside of mourning contexts.
Examples
I am so sorry to hear about your family member passing, please accept my condolences.
Something so major happened to his family, how should we comfort him to overcome his sorrow?
Related words
Common phrases
please accept my condolences and let nature take its course
Common mistake
Avoid using this phrase in situations that do not involve death or major bereavement, as it sounds overly dramatic or inappropriate for minor setbacks or disappointments.
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.
