ci4 jyun4辭源辞源
Jyutpingci4 jyun4
Yalechìh yùhn
Definition
The origin of words and phrases; etymology.
writtenother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the historical development and linguistic roots of words or idioms. It is a formal term primarily used in academic or literary contexts rather than in casual daily chatter. You will often encounter it in dictionaries or scholarly articles discussing the evolution of language.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
to research the etymology
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 來源, which is a general term for the source or origin of anything, such as a product or a piece of news. Use 辭源 strictly when discussing the linguistic history of words or phrases.
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.
