Welcome to our comprehensive guide on expressing the question “What is it?” in Cantonese. Whether you’re a beginner or already familiar with the language, this guide will assist you in mastering both the formal and informal ways to ask this question. Additionally, we’ll provide useful tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive right in!
Formal Ways to Say “What is it?” in Cantonese
If you’re looking to ask the question formally, particularly in professional settings or when speaking to someone older or in a higher position, these phrases are suitable:
1. 係咩嚟㗎？ (hai6 me1 lei4 gaa3)
This expression is commonly used in Hong Kong and is equivalent to asking “What is it?” in a formal manner. It’s a polite way of seeking information or clarification.
Note: Cantonese romanization is provided in Jyutping.
Here’s an example using this phrase:
Person A: 係咩嚟㗎？ (hai6 me1 lei4 gaa3?)
Person B: 嗰個係電腦。(go2 go3 hai6 din6 nou5.)
Person A: What is it?
Person B: That is a computer.
2. 點解？ (dim2 gaai2?)
Although “點解” primarily means “why,” it can also be used to ask for explanations or descriptions. If you are specifically inquiring about the nature or identity of something, this phrase can be utilized formally.
Example usage:
Person A: 點解？ (dim2 gaai2?)
Person B: 呢個係一個蘋果。(ni1 go3 hai6 jat1 go3 ping4 gwo2.)
Person A: What is it?
Person B: This is an apple.
Informal Ways to Say “What is it?” in Cantonese
When conversing with friends, peers, or in casual situations, you can opt for more informal and commonly used expressions to ask “What is it?” in Cantonese. These phrases are more relaxed and convenient in such contexts.
1. 點解嘅？ (dim2 gaai2 ge3?)
Similar to the formal “點解,” by adding the possessive particle “嘅” (ge3), this phrase becomes more colloquial. It’s commonly used among friends or people of similar age groups.
Example usage:
Person A: 點解嘅？ (dim2 gaai2 ge3?)
Person B: 呢個係一個筆。(ni1 go3 hai6 jat1 go3 bat1.)
Person A: What is it?
Person B: This is a pen.
2. 嗰個係乜嘢？ (go2 go3 hai6 mat1 je5?)
This phrase directly translates to “What is that?” and is commonly used in informal settings when asking about something specific.
Example usage:
Person A: 嗰個係乜嘢？ (go2 go3 hai6 mat1 je5?)
Person B: 嗰個係電視。(go2 go3 hai6 din6 si6.)
Person A: What is that?
Person B: That is a television.
Tips for Learning Cantonese Expressions
Here are some valuable tips to maximize your learning of Cantonese expressions:
- Practice speaking with native Cantonese speakers or language partners to improve your pronunciation and fluency.
- Listen to Cantonese audio material, such as podcasts or music, to expose yourself to the language and its natural cadence.
- Use vocabulary flashcards or language learning apps to enhance your Cantonese vocabulary.
- Watch Cantonese movies, TV shows, or YouTube videos with subtitles to contextualize phrases and understand their usage better.
- Immerse yourself in the Cantonese-speaking culture whenever possible by participating in language exchanges, cultural events, or local activities.
Regional Variations
Cantonese, being spoken in different regions, may have slight variations in expressions. Here are a couple of examples:
1. 梗係乜嘢？ (gang2 hai6 mat1 ye5?)
This expression is commonly used in the Guangzhou region of mainland China. It has a similar meaning to “What is it?” and can be used both formally and informally.
2. 點样呀？ (dim2 joeng6 aa3?)
This phrase, commonly used in parts of Malaysia and Singapore, can be used to ask “What is it?” in Cantonese. It’s frequently used in informal contexts within those regions.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now gained a thorough understanding of how to express “What is it?” in Cantonese. You’ve learned formal and informal variations, as well as some regional differences. Remember to practice and apply these phrases in real-life situations to improve your language skills. Happy learning!
