bak1 bin6北便
Jyutpingbak1 bin6
Yalebāk bihn
Definition
The north; northern side; northwards.
colloquialplaces
How it's used
Directional terms in Cantonese often use 便 as a suffix to indicate a general side or area. While 北邊 is standard in written Chinese, Cantonese speakers consistently prefer the character 便 for this purpose. It functions as a spatial reference rather than a precise coordinate.
Examples
Go to the shop to the north to buy things.
Related words
Common phrases
that side to the north
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin pronunciation of 北邊, but in Cantonese, the suffix is specifically read as a colloquial variant. Avoid using it to describe exact compass directions, as it is more commonly used for general orientation or relative locations.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
