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Definition
Usual, common, or ordinary, often used in negative constructions.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Primarily appears in negative constructions to emphasize that something is unusual or exceptional. While it functions as a standard adjective, it carries a slightly formal or literary weight compared to everyday descriptors like 普通 or 平常. Using it in positive, affirmative sentences can sound slightly poetic or dramatic.
Examples
This matter is actually quite ordinary.
His performance is definitely not normal.
Related words
Common phrases
extraordinary
Common mistake
Learners often overuse it in casual speech where 普通 or 平常 would sound more natural. It is best reserved for situations where you want to highlight that something deviates from the expected norm.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
