cim4 zoi6潛在潜在
Jyutpingcim4 zoi6
Yalechìhm joih
Definition
Potential or underlying; hidden and not yet revealed.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Used primarily in formal or professional contexts to describe factors that are not yet visible but could emerge later. It functions as a modifier for nouns, often appearing in business or technical discussions regarding risks, threats, or opportunities. Unlike everyday descriptive adjectives, it carries a sense of analytical observation rather than casual opinion.
Examples
This plan has potential problems.
Do you think he has potential ability?
Related words
Common phrases
potential risk
underlying crisis
potential customer
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the verb 潛水, which means to dive or to go offline/silent in a chat group. Ensure you only use 潛在 as a modifier for nouns, not as a standalone action.
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.
