Guide: How to Say “What are you doing?” in Cantonese

Learning how to engage in everyday conversations is an essential part of mastering a language. Being able to ask someone “What are you doing?” is a great way to start a conversation and show your interest in another person’s activities. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “What are you doing?” in Cantonese. We’ll also provide regional variations when necessary, along with plenty of tips and examples to help you navigate the nuances of the language.

Formal Expressions:

When speaking in a formal context or with someone you don’t know well, it’s important to use appropriate language and show respect. Here are some formal phrases to ask “What are you doing?” in Cantonese:

1. 你做什麼呀？ (nei5 zou6 sam1 mo1 aa3?)
   This phrase is a common way to ask “What are you doing?” in a polite and formal manner. It can be used in various situations, such as when talking to colleagues or acquaintances.
2. 你在忙什麼？ (nei5 zoi6 maang4 sam1 mo1?)
   This phrase literally translates to “What are you busy with?” and is often used in formal contexts. It implies that the person you’re asking is occupied or has important tasks to attend to.
3. 你工作做緊乜嘢？ (nei5 gung1 zok3 zou6 gan2 mat1 je5?)
   A more formal way to ask “What are you doing for work?”. This question can be used when discussing professional matters with colleagues, clients, or superiors.

Informal Expressions:

In casual conversations or when speaking with friends and family, you can use more informal expressions to ask “What are you doing?” Here are some examples of how to do that in Cantonese:

1. 你做咩？ (nei5 zou6 me1?)
   This is a commonly used informal phrase that can be translated as “What are you doing?” It’s suitable for conversations with friends, siblings, or close acquaintances.
2. 你做乜嘢呀？ (nei5 zou6 mat1 je5 aa3?)
   A slightly more colloquial way to ask the question, often used among friends and family. The addition of “呀 (aa3)” at the end adds a friendly tone to the phrase.
3. 你喺度做咩？ (nei5 hai2 dou6 zou6 me1?)
   This phrase includes “喺度 (hai2 dou6)” which means “here” or “in this place.” It can be used when you are physically present in the same location as the person you’re asking.

Regional Variations:

While Cantonese is predominantly spoken in the Guangdong province of China and Hong Kong, variations exist due to cultural differences and historical influences. Here are some regional variations you may encounter when asking “What are you doing?” in Cantonese:

In Hong Kong, it’s common to hear the phrase “你咩事 (nei5 me1 si6)” used informally to mean “What’s up?” or “What are you doing?”

These regional variations may enrich your language skills and help you connect with different Cantonese-speaking communities. However, it’s essential to be aware of the context and appropriateness of these expressions depending on your location and the people you are speaking with.

Tips for Using the Phrases:

Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when using these phrases:

• Context Matters: The context in which you use a particular phrase can alter its level of formality. Always pay attention to the context and adjust your language accordingly.
• Be Mindful of Relationships: If you’re unfamiliar with someone or in a professional setting, it’s best to use formal expressions. Informal expressions are more suitable for conversations with friends, family, or people you’re close to.
• Body Language and Tone: Your body language and tone can convey whether you’re asking “What are you doing?” casually or in a more serious manner. Be aware of your non-verbal communication to avoid misunderstandings.
• Embedded Question Particle: In Cantonese, phrases often include a question particle at the end, such as “嘛 (maa)” or “呀 (aa3)”. Adding or omitting these particles can change the tone of your question, so consider your desired level of formality.

Examples:

Here are a few examples that demonstrate how to use the phrases we’ve discussed:

1. Formal Example:
   You are at a business conference and want to ask a new acquaintance what they do for a living.
   You: 你工作做緊乜嘢？
   Them: 我係一個律師。(I am a lawyer.)
   You: 很有趣！(That’s interesting!)
2. Informal Example:
   You are talking to a close friend and want to know what they are doing this weekend.
   You: 你做咩？聽日有冇嘢計劃呀？(What are you doing? Do you have any plans tomorrow?)
   Friend: 我同朋友去行山，你呢？(I am going hiking with friends. What about you?)
   You: 我亦都有興趣，可以一齊去嗎？(I am also interested. Can I join you?)

Conclusion:

Asking “What are you doing?” in Cantonese is a useful phrase to initiate conversations and connect with others. By learning both formal and informal expressions, along with regional variations, you’ll be able to adapt your language skills to various contexts. Remember to consider your relationship with the person you’re speaking to, the regional variations present in the Cantonese community, and the appropriate level of formality for each situation. Always pay attention to your body language and tone to ensure your message is conveyed accurately. Now, armed with these phrases, go forth and start engaging in meaningful conversations in Cantonese!