can3 zyu6趁住
Jyutpingcan3 zyu6
Yalechan jyuh
Definition
To take advantage of an opportunity or a situation; while.
colloquialdaily actionstime
How it's used
This word functions as a conjunction or adverbial marker that emphasizes seizing a specific window of opportunity. It is almost always used to suggest an action should be taken immediately before a situation changes. Unlike formal alternatives, it carries a sense of urgency and active participation in the moment.
Examples
While the weather is good, let's go hiking.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 趁, which is the base form. While 趁 can be used alone, adding 住 emphasizes the ongoing nature of the opportunity, making it sound more natural when urging someone to act during a specific state.
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.
