bei1陂
Jyutpingbei1
Yalebēi
Definition
An embankment, pond, or pool.
colloquialnatureplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to a small body of water or a pond, often found in rural or agricultural settings in the New Territories. It carries a rustic connotation and is distinct from the more general term for a lake or large reservoir. When used to describe the bank or edge, it emphasizes the sloped nature of the terrain leading down to the water.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin pronunciation or usage, where it might refer to a slope or hillside. In Cantonese, the focus remains on the water feature itself rather than the incline of the land.
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.
