破戒 (pò jiè) — to break a religious vow or precept; to break a self-imposed rule or taboo

Definition

Literally 'break a precept' — used both for violating a religious vow (a monk drinking) and, by extension, breaking any self-imposed personal rule (a diet, a pledge).

verb
to break a religious vow or preceptto break a self-imposed rule or taboo

Examples

  • 破戒
    Tā chū jiā duō nián, cóng wèi pò jiè.
    He has been a monk for many years and has never broken a precept.
  • Zhè wèi hé shàng yīn wèi hē jiǔ ér pò le jiè.
    This monk broke his vow because he drank alcohol.
  • Tā fā shì jiǎn féi, dàn zuó tiān yòu pò jiè chī le dàn gāo.
    He swore to lose weight, but yesterday he broke his rule and ate cake.

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