bat1 cang4不曾
Jyutpingbat1 cang4
Yalebāt chàhng
Definition
Never; have not yet done something.
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How it's used
The term 不曾 is exclusively written and formal, appearing mostly in literature or news reports. In spoken Cantonese, native speakers use 未試過 to express the concept of having never done something. Using 不曾 in daily conversation sounds unnatural and overly dramatic, as if reading from a script.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 不曾 because it translates directly to never, but it is not used in spoken language. Stick to 未試過 for all casual and professional spoken interactions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
