Learning how to say specific phrases in different languages can be incredibly useful, especially when traveling to a new country or trying to communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds. If you’re interested in learning how to say “How to say this in Cantonese,” we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this phrase in Cantonese, providing you with tips, examples, and even some regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Expression: 如何用廣東話說這個 (jyu4 ho2 jung6 gwong2 dung1 waa2 syut3 ze5 go3)
When it comes to formal expressions, Cantonese generally follows the standard Chinese vocabulary and sentence structure. Therefore, a formal way to say “How to say this in Cantonese” is “如何用廣東話說這個” (jyu4 ho2 jung6 gwong2 dung1 waa2 syut3 ze5 go3). This phrase can be used in various formal settings, such as business meetings, presentations, or when engaging with someone in polite conversation.
Informal Expression: 點講呢個喺廣東話？(dim2 gong2 ni1 go3 hai2 gwong2 dung1 waa2?)
When it comes to informal situations, Cantonese speakers often use a more casual expression. In this case, the commonly used phrase to ask “How to say this in Cantonese” is “點講呢個喺廣東話？” (dim2 gong2 ni1 go3 hai2 gwong2 dung1 waa2?). This phrase can be used when talking to friends, family, or peers in a relaxed setting.
Tips and Examples:
Tips for Pronunciation:
- Pronounce “jyu4” like “you” in English, but with a slight “y” sound added in front.
- Pronounce “ho2” like the sound “haw” in English.
- Pronounce “jung6” like the sound “yung” in English, but with a slight “j” sound added in front.
- Pronounce “gwong2” like “gwong” in English, but with a tone that rises and then falls.
- Pronounce “dung1” like “dung” in English, but with a rising tone.
- Pronounce “waa2” like “waa” in English, but with a rising tone.
- Pronounce “syut3” like “shoot” in English, but with a falling tone.
- Pronounce “ze5 go3” like “zuh gor” in English, but as separate syllables.
- Pronounce “dim2” like “deem” in English, but with a falling tone.
- Pronounce “gong2” like “gong” in English, but with a falling tone.
- Pronounce “ni1” like “knee” in English, but with a rising tone.
- Pronounce “go3” like “gor” in English, but with a rising tone.
- Pronounce “hai2” like “hi” in English, but with a rising tone.
Examples:
Formal:
如何用廣東話解釋這個詞語？ (jyu4 ho2 jung6 gwong2 dung1 waa2 gaai2 sik1 ze5 go3 ci4 jyu5?)
Translation: How do you explain this term in Cantonese?
Informal:
點解喺廣東話講「好食」？ (dim2 gaai2 hai2 gwong2 dung1 waa2 gong2 “hou2 sik6”?)
Translation: How do you say “delicious” in Cantonese?
Keep in mind that Cantonese may have regional variations in terms of vocabulary and pronunciation. However, the phrases provided in this guide are widely understood across different Cantonese-speaking regions.
With these phrases and examples, you can confidently ask how to say something in Cantonese whether you’re in a formal or informal setting. Remember to practice, pay attention to pronunciation, and have fun exploring the richness of the Cantonese language!
