zyut6絕绝
Jyutpingzyut6
Yalejyuht
Definition
To cut off, break off, terminate, or stop something from continuing.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in Cantonese, meaning it rarely stands alone as a verb in daily speech. It carries a sense of finality or extreme measures, often implying an irreversible or radical decision to stop something completely. When used in compounds, it emphasizes the absolute nature of the action, such as cutting off all contact or resources.
Examples
The two of them have already broken off their friendship.
Do you really need to go on a hunger strike to protest?
Related words
Common phrases
to break off a friendship
to go on a hunger strike
a dead end
Common mistake
Learners often mistake it for a standalone verb like 停 or 斷. Remember that it almost always requires a second character to form a complete verb phrase, such as 絕交 or 絕食.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
