can1 seon3親信亲信
Jyutpingcan1 seon3
Yalechān seun
Definition
A trusted follower, confidant, or close aide.
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
Implies a close, often hierarchical relationship where the person is not just a friend but someone who acts on behalf of a leader. It carries a slightly formal or political weight, often used in professional or organizational contexts rather than casual social settings. While it describes a person, it is rarely used to describe a peer or a casual acquaintance.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is the boss's most trusted confidant.
Find a trusted person to help you get it done.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a regular friend or a colleague you simply like. It specifically denotes a subordinate or partner who handles sensitive tasks for a superior.
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.
