bun2 tai2本體本体
Jyutpingbun2 tai2
Yalebún tái
Definition
The thing itself; an object in its own right, as opposed to its representations or attributes.
neutralother
How it's used
Refers to the core or original form of something, often contrasting with a copy, a projection, or a superficial appearance. It is frequently used in gaming or fantasy contexts to distinguish a main character from their illusions or clones.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
The essence of this artwork is actually very simple.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 本身, which is a common adverb meaning 'originally' or 'by nature'. 本體 is strictly a noun referring to the entity itself.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
