Learning how to express the concept of “last week” in Cantonese can greatly enhance your language skills and allow you to communicate more effectively with native speakers. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to say “last week” in Cantonese, with various tips, examples, and even some regional variations. So, let’s dive in and master this useful phrase!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Last Week”
In formal settings or when speaking with elderly individuals, it is important to use polite and respectful language. Here are some commonly used phrases to convey the notion of “last week” formally in Cantonese:
1. 先 星期 (sīn sīng jī) – Literally translates to “before week.” This phrase is suitable for formal occasions or when addressing someone of higher authority.
2. 上 星期 (soeng sīng jī) – Translates to “upper week.” As opposed to the previous phrase, you can use 上星期 when speaking with someone of equal or slightly higher authority.
3. 頭 星期 (tau sīng jī) – Meaning “first week.” This phrase is often employed when referring to the week immediately preceding the current week.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Last Week”
When conversing with friends, family, or peers, it is common to use more colloquial expressions. Here are some informal phrases commonly used to express “last week” in Cantonese:
1. 尋日 (cam jat) – Frequently used in informal conversations, 尋日 means “the day before today.” It is the most commonly used informal term for “last week.”
2. 上星期 (soeng sing kei) – Similar to its formal counterpart, 上星期 can also be used in casual settings to convey the concept of “last week.”
3. 先個星期 (sīn go sīng jī) – A more relaxed way to say “last week” in Cantonese. It is often used among friends and acquaintances.
3. Regional Variations
Cantonese can exhibit regional variations in vocabulary and expressions, including the way “last week” is spoken. Here are a few examples:
1. 舊個星期 (gau go sīng jī) – Commonly used in the regions surrounding Guangzhou and Hong Kong.
2. 先星期 (sīn sing kei) – More prevalent in the eastern parts of Guangdong Province.
4. Tips and Examples
To further solidify your understanding of how to say “last week” in Cantonese, here are some tips and examples:
- TIP 1: When using the word “week” (星期), remember to place it after the preceding words or phrases.
EXAMPLE 1: If you want to say “last week’s weather,” you would say “上個星期嘅天氣” (soeng go sīng jī ge tin hei).
- TIP 2: Pay attention to the level of politeness required in a given situation and choose the appropriate phrase accordingly.
EXAMPLE 2: When talking to your teacher or supervisor about something that happened the previous week, you can say “先星期我有一個問題” (sīn sing kei ngo jau jat go mun tai) which means “last week, I had a question.”
- TIP 3: The phrase “last week” can also be used in questions to inquire about past events.
EXAMPLE 3: If you want to ask someone, “Did you watch the movie last week?” you would say “你上個星期睇咗部戲未呀?” (nei soeng go sīng jī tai zo bou hei mei a?).
Conclusion
Mastering how to say “last week” in Cantonese is an essential step toward fluency in the language. You have now learned various formal and informal ways to express this concept, along with some regional variations. Remember to consider the level of formality required in different situations and practice using these phrases in conversations. With dedication and practice, you will soon be confidently incorporating “last week” into your Cantonese vocabulary!
