can4 ci4陳詞陈词
Jyutpingcan4 ci4
Yalechàhn chìh
Definition
To state one's views; to present or deliver a speech.
writtencommunication
How it's used
Primarily used in formal or legal contexts, such as a lawyer delivering a closing argument or a public official making a formal statement. It carries a sense of gravity and deliberation that distinguishes it from casual speaking or chatting. While it can function as a verb, it is most frequently encountered as part of the four-character idiom 慷慨陳詞.
Examples
He gave a heartfelt speech on stage, and everyone was very moved.
Related words
Common phrases
to speak with fervor and eloquence
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe casual daily conversation, as it sounds overly dramatic or archaic in informal settings. Use 講嘢 or 發言 instead for everyday situations.
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.
