aan3 zau3晏晝晏昼
Definition
Afternoon; the period of time around midday or between noon and sunset.
Example
gam1今jat6日aan3晏zau3晝jat1一cai4齊sik6食faan6飯。
gam1今jat6日aan3晏zau3昼jat1一cai4齐sik6食faan6饭。
Let's have lunch together this afternoon.
How it's used
Refers specifically to the period from around noon until sunset, making it distinct from the more formal or clock-based terms used in written Chinese. It is the standard way to talk about the afternoon in daily life, whereas the word 下晝 is also common but sometimes perceived as slightly more formal or regional depending on the speaker. Using it to describe a duration of time is very natural and frequent in casual conversation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with the Mandarin word 下午, which is understood but sounds less natural in a purely Cantonese context. Additionally, do not use it to refer to late evening or night, as it strictly covers the daytime hours.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
