數學
sou3 hok6
The Cantonese word for math is 數學 (sou3 hok6).
數學 is used to refer to both the general subject of mathematics and the field of study. When working with basic arithmetic, you may find these terms useful: 加 (gaa1) for plus, 減 (gaam1) for minus, 乘 (sing4) for multiply, 除 (ceoi4) for divide and 算式 (syun3 sik1) for an equation.
Meaning: short form of mathematics (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
sou3 hok6
Did you know?
- In Cantonese, the word 數 (sou3) in 數學 doesn't just mean 'number', but also refers to 'fate' or 'destiny' in a spiritual context.
- In traditional Chinese culture, the 'number' part of 數學 is linked to the 'I Ching', where numeric patterns were used for divination.
- While 數學 is the formal term, Cantonese speakers often use 'Math' as a loanword from English in casual conversation, especially in Hong Kong.
Examples in context
- 數學考試你合唔合格啊？Did you pass your math exam?This sentence is useful for asking about the result of a 數學 exam.Tatoeba #12061589 by thesilhouette, translation #2258148 by _undertoad
- 呢條係一條好深嘅數學題。This is a difficult math problem.This sentence is useful for describing a difficult 數學 problem.Tatoeba #417761 by nickyeow, translation #55481 by CK
Example conversation
A boy and a girl are talking about their school subjects.
- 嘉欣 Ka Yan你覺得數學難唔難呀？nei5 gok3 dak6 syut3 hok6 naan4 m4 naan4 aa3?Do you think math is difficult?
- 家明 Ka Ming我覺得數學好難呀。ngo5 gok3 dak6 syut3 hok6 hou2 naan4 aa3.I think math is very difficult.
- 嘉欣 Ka Yan我亦都覺得數學好悶。ngo5 jik6 dou1 gok3 dak6 syut3 hok6 hou2 mun6.I also think math is very boring.
- 家明 Ka Ming係呀，我好唔鍾意數學。hai6 aa3, ngo5 hou2 m4 zung1 ji3 syut3 hok6.Yeah, I really don't like math.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
