Forgetting something can happen to anyone, regardless of the language they speak. In Cantonese, you can express this “I forgot” concept in various ways, depending on the formality of the situation. Whether you’re speaking in a formal or informal setting, this guide will provide you with the most common, useful expressions to effectively convey the message. Let’s dive into the different ways to say “I forgot” in Cantonese:
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
If you find yourself in a formal or professional setting, it is essential to use respectful language. These formal expressions will help you convey your forgetfulness politely:
1. 我忘記左 (ngo5 mong4 gei3 zo2) – I forgot.
This expression is a simple way to admit that you forgot something. It is considered polite and suitable for most formal situations.
2. 遺忘左 (ji4 mong4 zo2) – I have forgotten.
Similar to the previous expression, this phrase is slightly more formal but still appropriate for formal occasions. It conveys a sense of regret for forgetting.
Informal Expressions:
Informal settings allow for a more relaxed and casual approach to conversation. If you are among friends or in a casual environment, these expressions will let you convey your forgetfulness in a less formal manner:
1. 我唔記得 (ngo5 m4 gei3 dak1) – I don’t remember.
When you want to express forgetting something in a casual context, this phrase is commonly used. It implies that you cannot recall or remember the information at that moment.
2. 我就唔記得啦 (ngo5 zau6 m4 gei3 dak1 laa1) – I really don’t remember.
If you want to emphasize your forgetfulness in an informal setting, this expression can help you convey your frustration or disappointment in your memory lapse.
Additional Tips:
1. Body Language:
Remember that non-verbal cues often enhance communication. When expressing forgetfulness, it can be helpful to express your thoughts through appropriate body language, such as shrugging your shoulders or raising your hands slightly, to emphasize your forgetfulness.
2. Politeness Matters:
Cantonese culture values politeness and respect. Even in informal settings, it is always appreciated if you add polite particles like “m4 hai6” (not polite) or “m4 goi1” (not respectful) at the end of your phrases to maintain a friendly tone.
Examples:
- Formal:
- Q: 你寄咗個文件俾我，你記得嗎？
(nei5 gei3 zo2 go3 man4 jyun4 bei2 ngo5, nei5 gei3 dak1 maa3?)
Did you send me the document, do you remember? - A1: 唔好意思，我忘記左。
(m4 hou2 ji3 si1, ngo5 mong4 gei3 zo2.)
I’m sorry, I forgot. - A2: 不好意思，我遺忘左。
(bat1 hou2 ji3 si1, ngo5 ji4 mong4 zo2.)
I apologize, I have forgotten.
- Q: 你寄咗個文件俾我，你記得嗎？
- Informal:
- Q: 唔知你記唔記得有個聚會呀？
(m4 zi1 nei5 gei3 m4 gei3 dak1 jau5 go3 zeoi6 wui2 aa3?)
Do you remember there’s a gathering? - A1: 唔記得，我真係唔記得。
(m4 gei3 dak1, ngo5 zan1 hai6 m4 gei3 dak1.)
I don’t remember, I really don’t remember. - A2: 唔好意思，我就唔記得啦。
(m4 hou2 ji3 si1, ngo5 zau6 m4 gei3 dak1 laa1.)
Sorry, I really don’t remember.
- Q: 唔知你記唔記得有個聚會呀？
Remember to adapt these expressions to the context and your relationship with the person you are speaking to. By using the appropriate level of formality, you will effectively communicate that you have forgotten something in Cantonese. Enjoy your language learning journey and don’t worry if you occasionally forget things – it happens to the best of us!
