Greetings! If you’re interested in learning how to say “when” in Cantonese, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal expressions for “when” in Cantonese. Furthermore, we’ll provide you with many helpful tips and examples to enhance your understanding. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “When” in Cantonese
When using formal language in Cantonese, it’s important to choose the appropriate expression for “when.” The formal equivalent of “when” is “ji4 si6” (幾時). Here’s an example to illustrate its usage:
Example:
你幾時放假？
Nei5 gei2 si6 fong3 gaa3?When do you have a vacation?
In this example, “幾時” (ji4 si6) is used to ask about the timing of someone’s vacation. It’s a versatile phrase to express “when” in a formal context.
Informal Expressions for “When” in Cantonese
When speaking informally in Cantonese, you have different options to convey the meaning of “when.” Here are a few commonly used phrases:
1. 乜時 (mat1 si4)
“乜時” (mat1 si4) is a casual way to say “when” in Cantonese. It’s often used in friendly conversations or with acquaintances. Let’s look at an example:
Example:
你乜時放假？
Nei5 mat1 si4 fong3 gaa3?When do you have a vacation?
In this informal dialog, “乜時” (mat1 si4) functions as the informal version of “when.”
2. 幾點 (gei2 dim2)
If you want to specify a time, you can use “幾點” (gei2 dim2) in an informal context. Here’s an example:
Example:
你幾點放工？
Nei5 gei2 dim2 fong3 gung1?When do you finish work?
In this informal exchange, “幾點” (gei2 dim2) is used to ask about the exact time someone finishes work. It adds a level of informality and friendliness to the conversation.
Tips for Using “When” in Cantonese
Now that you’re familiar with the formal and informal expressions for “when” in Cantonese, let’s explore a few tips to help you use them correctly:
1. Pay Attention to Context
As with any language, context is crucial. Consider whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, and choose the appropriate expression accordingly. This will help you communicate more effectively.
2. Politeness Matters
If you’re having a conversation with someone you should show respect towards, it’s preferable to use the formal expression “幾時” (ji4 si6). It exhibits politeness and demonstrates your awareness of appropriate language usage.
3. Practice Pronunciation
To improve your Cantonese language skills, focus on practicing the pronunciation of these expressions. Listen to native speakers, imitate their intonation, and pay attention to the tones. Regular practice will help you sound more natural.
Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of this guide! You’ve learned two primary ways to express “when” in Cantonese: the formal “幾時” (ji4 si6) and the informal “乜時” (mat1 si4). Remember to use the appropriate expression based on the context and level of formality. With practice and exposure to the language, you’ll feel more confident incorporating these expressions into your Cantonese conversations. Good luck, and enjoy your language journey!
