zoeng1 gung1 suk6 zeoi6將功贖罪将功赎罪
Jyutpingzoeng1 gung1 suk6 zeoi6
Yalejēung gūng suhk jeuih
Definition
To atone for one's sins or mistakes by making contributions or doing good deeds afterwards.
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How it's used
This idiom carries a formal and slightly dramatic tone, often used in professional or serious contexts where someone has failed a task or committed a transgression. It implies a sense of urgency to restore one's reputation or status before a final judgment is made. While it sounds like a set phrase, it is commonly used in daily speech when someone is pleading for a second chance.
Examples
He wants to make amends, so he took the initiative to clean up the mess.
Do you still have a chance to make up for your mistakes?
Related words
Common phrases
give a chance to make amends
Common mistake
Do not use this for minor, everyday mistakes like spilling water or being five minutes late. It is reserved for significant errors or failures that carry consequences, as it literally involves the concept of balancing a crime with a meritorious act.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
