baak6 zi2白紙白纸
Jyutpingbaak6 zi2
Yalebaahk jí
Definition
Blank white paper, often used figuratively to describe a blank slate or starting from scratch.
- blank white paper
- figurativea blank slate; starting from scratch
neutraldaily actionsother
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of an empty sheet, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who lacks experience or knowledge in a specific field. It carries a neutral to slightly sympathetic tone when referring to someone as a beginner. It is common to hear the phrase 白紙一張 to emphasize that something is completely empty or untouched.
Measure word
zoeng1張jēungExamples
This contract is still a blank sheet, nothing has been written on it yet.
Related words
Common phrases
a blank sheet of paper
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it might imply a lack of political stance or awareness, as in Hong Kong Cantonese it is primarily used for physical paper or a lack of experience.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
