bun2 cin4本錢本钱
Jyutpingbun2 cin4
Yalebún chìhn
Definition
Capital, resources, or an advantage used to start a business or gain a benefit.
- capital; funding needed to start a business
- figurativean asset or advantage that can be capitalized on
colloquialmoneypeople
How it's used
Beyond the literal financial sense of starting a business, this word is frequently used metaphorically to describe any personal advantage or resource one can leverage. It often refers to inherent qualities like youth, beauty, or talent that allow someone to succeed or take chances. Using it in this figurative way sounds very natural and captures the idea of having a safety net or a competitive edge.
Measure word
bat1筆bātExamples
He does not have enough capital to take risks.
Being young is your greatest asset.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin word 資本, which is more formal and academic. While 本錢 can be used in both business and personal contexts, it is strictly a noun and should not be used as a verb.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
