Cantonese is a vibrant and expressive language spoken by millions around the world, particularly in southern China, Hong Kong, and overseas Chinese communities. If you’re looking to learn how to say “one more” in Cantonese, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you need to ask for an extra serving of your favorite dim sum or an additional piece of paper, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express “one more” in Cantonese, along with tips, examples, and even a few regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways
When it comes to formal situations, such as in business or when interacting with elders, it’s important to use a polite and respectful language. Here are some formal ways to say “one more” in Cantonese:
1. 仲要 (zung6 jiu3)
This phrase is often used in formal settings to request one more of something. For example:
我仲要一份菠蘿包 (ngo5 zung6 jiu3 jat1 fan6 bo1 lo4 baau1)
I would like one more pineapple bun, please.
2. 再多一個 (zoi3 do1 jat1 go3)
This expression literally translates to “one more again.” It can be used interchangeably with “仲要 (zung6 jiu3)” and is another polite way to ask for an extra item:
可唔可以再多一個杯啡？ (ho2 m4 ho2 ji5 zoi3 do1 jat1 go3 bui1 fe1?)
Can I have one more cup of coffee, please?
Informal Ways
In casual and informal situations, such as with friends or when speaking to peers, you can use more relaxed expressions to convey “one more” in Cantonese. Here are a couple of informal ways:
1. 再俾我一個 (zoi3 bei2 ngo5 jat1 go3)
This phrase translates to “give me one more.” It’s a commonly used informal expression to ask for an additional item:
老闆，再俾我一個雞翼啦！ (lou5 baan2, zoi3 bei2 ngo5 jat1 go3 gai1 jik6 laa3!)
Hey, boss, give me one more chicken wing!
2. 再 (zoi3)
This is a simple and informal way to indicate “one more” in Cantonese. When combined with the name of the item you desire, it becomes a straightforward request:
再一杯凍檸茶 (zoi3 jat1 bui1 dung3 ning4 caa4)
One more iced lemon tea, please.
Regional Variations
While Cantonese is spoken in various regions, including Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau, there are only slight variations in the way “one more” is expressed. Here is an example from Hong Kong Cantonese:
1. 加多一個 (gaa1 do1 jat1 go3)
In Hong Kong, instead of “再多一個 (zoi3 do1 jat1 go3),” the phrase “加多一個 (gaa1 do1 jat1 go3)” is commonly used to mean “one more”.
多謝，可以加多一個蘋果派嗎？ (do1 ze6, ho2 ji5 gaa1 do1 jat1 go3 ping4 gwo2 paai4 maa1?)
Thank you, can I have one more apple pie?
Final Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you master these phrases:
- Remember to use a polite tone and appropriate body language to convey respect when using the formal expressions.
- When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of formality, especially when addressing someone of higher social status or authority.
- Practice the phrases with native speakers or language exchange partners to improve your pronunciation and fluency.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Native speakers appreciate the effort and the willingness to learn their language.
With these expressions and tips in mind, you’re now equipped to confidently ask for “one more” in Cantonese. Remember to adapt your choice of phrase to the appropriate level of formality for the situation. Happy learning and enjoy exploring the rich culture and language of Cantonese!
