Learning how to say “we” in Cantonese is an essential aspect of mastering the language. The pronoun “we” is used to include oneself with others, expressing a sense of togetherness or belonging. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “we” in Cantonese, including both formal and informal expressions. While regional variations exist, we will mainly focus on the standard Cantonese dialect. Let’s dive into it!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “We”
1. 我哋 (ngo5 dei6) – The most common and formal way to say “we” in Cantonese is “我哋” (ngo5 dei6). This expression is used in official settings, formal conversations, or when speaking to individuals of higher authority.
2. 我們 (ngo5 mun4) – Another formal way to say “we” is “我們” (ngo5 mun4). It is often used in professional or academic contexts and maintains a respectful tone.
Informal Ways to Say “We”
1. 我地 (ngo5 dei6) – When speaking informally, the most commonly used expression for “we” in Cantonese is “我地” (ngo5 dei6). It is suitable for casual conversations among friends or peers.
2. 我地啲 (ngo5 dei6 di1) – Adding “啲” (di1) after “我地” (ngo5 dei6) makes it sound even more informal and colloquial. This form is especially popular in daily conversations and represents a sense of togetherness among equals.
Tips for Using “We” in Cantonese
1. Pay attention to the pronunciation – Pronouncing words correctly in Cantonese can be challenging, especially for non-native speakers. Practice pronouncing “我哋” (ngo5 dei6) or “我地” (ngo5 dei6) with a native speaker to ensure your pronunciation is accurate.
2. Understand formality levels – Cantonese, like many other languages, has different levels of formality. Always consider the context and your relationship with the person or people you are addressing to choose the appropriate form of “we.”
Examples
1. Formal:
Interviewer: 你們公司的總經理是誰？
You: 我們公司的總經理是李先生。
Translation: “Who is the general manager of your company?”
“The general manager of our company is Mr. Li.”
2. Informal:
Friend 1: 我們明天去飲茶，你想去嗎？
Friend 2: 當然！我地啲都好鐘意飲茶。
Translation: “We are going for yum cha tomorrow. Do you want to join us?”
“Of course! We all love yum cha.”
Remember, using the appropriate form of “we” in Cantonese helps convey your message accurately and shows respect to the listeners. Practice using these expressions in different contexts to become more confident in your Cantonese conversations.
As you continue to learn Cantonese, immerse yourself in the language, and embrace the rich Cantonese culture. Enjoy the journey of mastering this beautiful language!
