Gaining conversational proficiency in a foreign language involves mastering everyday vocabulary, including simple yet essential words like “minutes.” Whether you’re traveling to a Cantonese-speaking region or simply aiming to expand your linguistic repertoire, this guide will teach you the formal and informal ways to say “minutes” in Cantonese. We’ll also cover some regional variations that might be useful. So let’s dive in and discover how to express time like a local!
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Formal Ways to Say “Minutes” in Cantonese
When it comes to formal settings, such as business meetings, interviews, or official engagements, employing the appropriate vocabulary is crucial. Here are a few ways to express “minutes” formally in Cantonese:
1. 分鐘 (fan^1 zung^1)
This term is the most common formal word for “minutes” in Cantonese. It can be used in various situations, including time-related discussions, schedules, or formal presentations. For instance:
我們還有十五分鐘的開會時間。
(ngo^5 mun^4 waan^4 jau^5 sap^6 ng^5 fan^1 zung^1 dik^1 hoi^1 wui^2 si^4 gaan^1)
We have fifteen minutes left for the meeting.
2. 鐘頭 (zung^1 tau^4)
If you want to express the concept of “hours” followed by “minutes,” you can use this formal term. It is equivalent to saying “hour” in English. For example:
我遲到了二十五分鐘。
(ngo^5 ci^4 dou^3 liu^5 ji^6 sap^6 ng^5 fan^1 zung^1)
I am 25 minutes late.
Informal Ways to Say “Minutes” in Cantonese
Now let’s explore some informal expressions that are commonly used in daily conversations or casual situations:
1. 分 (fan^1)
This informal term is widely used to denote “minutes.” It is short, simple, and works well in most informal contexts. For instance:
我等你等咗好耐，等咗五十分。
(ngo^5 dang^2 nei^5 dang^2 zo^2 hou^2 noi^6, dang^2 zo^2 ng^5 sap^6 fan^1)
I’ve been waiting for you for a long time, waited for 50 minutes.
2. 分鐘 (fan^1 zung^1) [Informal Usage]
Surprisingly, using the combination of the formal terms for “minutes” in informal conversations is also common. It can add a touch of formality while still being approachable. Here’s an example:
我琴日打咗啲電話比佢五十分鐘。
(ngo^5 kam^4 jat^6 daa^2 zo^2 di^1 din^6 waa^2 bei^2 keoi^5 ng^5 sap^6 fan^1 zung^1)
I talked to him on the phone for 50 minutes yesterday.
Regional Variations
Cantonese, as a vibrant language, exhibits some regional variations. Although the differences are not substantial, it’s helpful to be aware of them:
1. 分鐘 (fan^1 zung^1) [Hong Kong]
In Hong Kong Cantonese, “分鐘” (fan^1 zung^1) is the most widely used term for “minutes.” You can confidently use it to express time in daily conversations across the city.
2. 分 (fan^1) [Guangzhou]
In Guangzhou Cantonese, “分” (fan^1) is more commonly used to denote “minutes.” It’s worth noting that this variation might not be familiar to everyone, so using “分鐘” (fan^1 zung^1) is generally a safer choice.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned how to say “minutes” in Cantonese using both formal and informal expressions. Remember, “分鐘” (fan^1 zung^1) is the primary formal term, while “分” (fan^1) is the informal equivalent. Additionally, be mindful of the regional variation where “分鐘” (fan^1 zung^1) is widely accepted in Hong Kong and “分” (fan^1) is more commonly used in Guangzhou.
Practice these phrases, and you’ll soon be able to confidently express time in minutes during your Cantonese conversations. Keep exploring the wonders of the Cantonese language, and embrace the rich culture it represents. Happy learning!
