ci5 fu4似乎
Jyutpingci5 fu4
Yalechíh fùh
Definition
Seemingly, as if, or appearing to be.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
While 似乎 is a standard adverb, it leans slightly more formal or written than the ubiquitous colloquial equivalent 好似. You will often hear it in news reports, professional settings, or when someone wants to sound a bit more objective or detached. It functions as a modal adverb to express a degree of uncertainty or inference based on observable evidence.
Examples
It seems like it will rain today, better bring an umbrella.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 似乎 at the end of a sentence like a particle, but it must always precede the verb or the adjective it modifies. Avoid using it to mean 'like' in the sense of 'similar to' or 'resembling', where 好似 or 似 is the correct choice.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
