coi4才
Jyutpingcoi4
Yalechòih
Definition
Talent, capability, or outstanding quality.
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in compound words rather than as a standalone noun in modern spoken Cantonese. It carries a formal or literary weight, often appearing in professional or academic contexts to describe someone's aptitude or skill set. When discussing someone's ability in casual speech, speakers typically prefer using words like 叻 or 本事.
Examples
He is truly a rare talent.
What kind of exceptional talent do you think he has?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a standalone noun to mean 'a talented person' in daily conversation, as it sounds overly formal or archaic. Learners often confuse it with the Mandarin adverb 才, which indicates 'only then' or 'just', a meaning that does not exist for this character in Cantonese.
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.
