Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “confirm” in Cantonese. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to express this word. We will also touch on regional variations, although they may not be necessary for everyday communication. Here, we present you with various tips and examples to help you master this common term.
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Formal Ways to Say “Confirm” in Cantonese
When it comes to formal settings, such as business or official conversations, it’s essential to use appropriate language. In these situations, you can use the following phrases to convey the meaning of “confirm” in Cantonese:
- 確認 (coek1 jing1): This is the most common and formal way to say “confirm” in Cantonese. It can be used in both professional and personal contexts. For example:
“請你確認接下來的會議時間。” (Cing2 nei5 coek1 jing1 zip3 hoi3 gei2 si6 mun4).
“Please confirm the upcoming meeting time.”
證實 (zing3 sat6): Although this term more directly translates to “verify” or “confirm,” it can be used as a formal alternative for “confirm” in certain cases. For example:
“請您證實您的身份。” (Cing2 neoi5 zing3 sat6 neoi5 dik1 san1 fung2).
“Please confirm your identity.”
肯定 (hang2 ding6): While this term generally means “positive” or “sure,” it can also be used to express confirmation formally. For example:
“請確認你會參加明天的活動。” (Cing2 coek1 jing1 nei5 wui5 caam1 gaa1 ming4 tin1 dik1 wut6 dung6).
“Please confirm your participation in tomorrow’s event.”
Informal Ways to Say “Confirm” in Cantonese
For casual conversations and interactions among friends or acquaintances, Cantonese provides several informal expressions to convey affirmation or confirmation. Here are some examples:
- 係 (hai6): This term is commonly used in informal conversations to mean “yes” or “correct.” It can also be used as a verb to express confirmation. For example:
“我約左佢，佢都係嚟緊。” (Ngo5 joek3 zo2 keoi5, keoi5 dou1 hai6 lei4 gan2).
“I made an appointment with him, and he confirmed he is coming soon.”
確定 (coek1 ding6): This is a more casual version of the formal term “確認 (coek1 jing1).” It is commonly used in everyday conversations among peers. For example:
“你確定要去唱K嗎？” (Nei5 coek1 ding6 jiu3 heoi3 coeng3 K aa3?)
“Are you confirming that you want to go karaoke?”
真 (zan1): Although this word translates to “true” or “real,” it can be used informally to express confirmation. For example:
“有人答你嘅問題，真係好感動。” (Jau5 jan4 daap3 nei5 ge3 man6 tai4, zan1 hai6 hou2 gam2 dung6).
“Someone answered your question, and I’m genuinely touched.”
Regional Variations
Cantonese is spoken in various regions, and as a result, there can be slight variations in the way “confirm” is expressed. However, these regional differences are not significant and are typically understood by Cantonese speakers from different areas. The terms mentioned above can generally be used universally in Cantonese-speaking regions.
To further enhance your Cantonese language skills, it’s helpful to be aware of some additional related phrases that can assist you in expressing confirmation in different contexts:
- 正式認可 (zing3 sik1 jing6 ho2): Means “officially recognized” or “formally approved.”
- 實話實說 (sat6 waa6 sat6 seot3): Equivalent to “to be honest” or “speaking truthfully.”
- 毋使驚 (m4 sai2 geng1): This phrase means “do not worry.” It is commonly used to reassure someone’s hesitant confirmation.
Now that you have a solid understanding of formal and informal ways to say “confirm” in Cantonese, along with additional related phrases, you can confidently use these terms in various situations.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Engage in conversations with Cantonese speakers, listen to native speakers, and continue expanding your knowledge of the language to become more fluent in expressing confirmation.
Happy learning and confirming in Cantonese!
